Incident
On August 2, 2008, at 1420 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-25-235 tow plane, registration N7211Z, and a Schweizer SGS 2-33A glider, registration N33923, collided in-flight over Jean Airport in Jean, Nevada. Both aircraft were operated by Las Vegas Valley Soaring under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The collision occurred after the glider had released from a tow operation. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plans were filed.
Sequence of Events
The flight originated from Jean Airport at 1413. Both pilots reported that the glider performed a normal tow breakaway at 3,000 feet mean sea level (msl) and turned right 60 to 70 degrees. The glider instructor then demonstrated controllability to the student using pitch to control airspeed. After release, the tow plane turned left 90 degrees, held that course for about 30 seconds, then turned right 90 degrees, roughly paralleling the original course. The tow plane pilot stated he had been in an area of high lift, climbed to about 6,000 feet msl, then descended and turned southwest toward the airport. Neither pilot maintained visual contact with the other aircraft during maneuvering. The tow plane pilot reported not seeing the glider beneath the nose and instrument panel. His right landing gear contacted the tail of the glider at a slight left-to-right crossing angle, with both aircraft on a southwesterly course.
Aircraft and Occupants
The Piper PA-25-235 (tow plane) was piloted by an airline transport pilot. The Schweizer SGS 2-33A glider carried a certified flight instructor and a student. There were no injuries to any of the three occupants. The glider sustained substantial damage, while the Piper had no damage.
Aftermath
After the collision, the glider pilot maintained directional control using angle of bank, as the rudder pedals became ineffective. Both aircraft landed safely at Jean Airport.