Glider strikes parked vehicle and windsock pole during winch tow

Casualties unknown • Prescott Valley, AZ, US

A glider experienced a wing-strike and subsequent ground impact after a bridle attachment point became unattached during a winch takeoff.

What happened

During the initiation of a winch tow, the left side of the glider's bridle attachment point became unattached from the fuselage. This created an asymmetrical force that pulled the aircraft to the left, causing the left wing to strike a parked truck.

While still under tow via only the right side and continuing to accelerate, the glider veered at a sharp angle away from the runway toward a windsock pole. The aircraft launched into the air and the inboard portion of the right wing struck the top of the windsock pole. Following this impact, the pilot activated the release mechanism to disconnect the tow wire.

The aircraft's right wingtip then made contact with the ground. The glider subsequently swung approximately 270 degrees, causing the fuselage and tail to strike the ground before coming to a complete stop. There were no injuries reported.

Findings

An investigation by an FAA inspector determined that the incorrect attachment of the bridle by the ground crew was the primary factor in the accident.

Probable cause

The ground crew incorrectly attached the bridle to the glider prior to the winch tow.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-01-25 Let BLANIK L-13 accident near Prescott Valley, AZ?

A glider experienced a wing-strike and subsequent ground impact after a bridle attachment point became unattached during a winch takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-01-25 involved a Let BLANIK L-13, registration N3463, at Prescott Valley, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The ground crew incorrectly attached the bridle to the glider prior to the winch tow.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09474. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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