What happened
On July 12, 2009, a PZL-BIELSKO SZD-59 glider, registration N592JD, was performing a landing at the airport in Durango, Colorado. The pilot was flying a right downwind pattern, transitioning to a right base and then to a final approach for a northward landing. During the approach, the pilot observed a tow plane departing the runway to the south.
In response to the presence of the tow plane, the pilot executed an abrupt 360-degree right turn at approximately 80 feet above ground level. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck trees. The impact destroyed the glider, and the pilot sustained one serious injury.
The investigation
Investigators determined that the pilot observed the tow plane taking off on the runway while on final approach. The pilot then chose to perform a full 360-degree turn at a very low altitude.