What happened
While returning to an uncontrolled airport after releasing a glider for a local soaring club, the pilot of a tow airplane entered the traffic pattern for runway 27. During the approach, the pilot observed another aircraft taking off from the same runway. To avoid conflict, the pilot elected to continue the approach and land on the grass adjacent to runway 27.
Upon touchdown, the pilot noticed a glider attempting to land in the opposite direction. The glider appeared to overshoot the centerline and was moving toward the tow airplane. In an attempt to avoid the glider, the pilot of the tow airplane turned right toward the runway; however, the glider turned toward the tow airplane. The pilot then turned back to the left, which resulted in the aircraft impacting a runway sign.
Findings
- The pilot of the tow airplane reported that no radio transmissions from the glider were heard on the LWV common traffic advisory frequency.
- According to the Airport Facility Directory, the traffic pattern for runway 27 is identical for both engine-driven aircraft and gliders.