Accident Overview
A glider was being towed to altitude by a tow airplane. During the initial climb after takeoff, the spoiler control handle was not locked, causing the spoilers to momentarily extend twice. The glider pilot felt the need to apply forward control forces but did not visually check the position of the spoiler control handle.
Sequence of Events
The tow pilot observed the spoiler extension and gave a rudder wave signal, indicating that the glider pilot should check the spoilers. When the glider pilot looked, the spoilers appeared to be retracted, leading him to misinterpret the tow pilot's signal. Consequently, the glider pilot released the glider from the tow airplane at approximately 100 feet above ground level.
Landing and Damage
After release, the glider pilot performed a force landing in a field. During the landing, the empennage separated from the rest of the glider. The glider pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the glider before or during the flight.
Post-Accident Information
No further details were provided regarding the glider type, registration, operator, location, or date of the incident. The report did not specify any injuries or fatalities, and no explicit probable cause was stated in the source.