What happened
During glider towing operations at Canadian Forces Detachment Mountain View, Ontario, a Bellanca 8GCBC Scout, registration C-GQIM, was performing its final launch of the day. The flight began with a Schweizer 2-33A glider in tow and a passenger in the rear seat. After releasing the glider and dropping the tow rope, the pilot transitioned into a demonstration flight involving steep turns and climbing maneuvers at approximately 1,500 feet agl.
While flying near a formation of gliders, the pilot intended to overtake them on their right side. Following the pass, the aircraft entered a steep, climbing left turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft rolled abruptly to the right and entered a spin. The aircraft descended in a near-vertical attitude and struck the ground, resulting in two fatalities.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's weight and balance, finding the center of gravity was near the aft limit. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's qualifications and the regulatory status of the aircraft's registration. It was discovered that the aircraft's certificate of registration was invalid due to an expired lease agreement and waiver between the owner and the operator.
Furthermore, the investigation found that the pilot had not completed the required currency flight checks mandated by the Air Cadet Gliding Program after a period of 118 days without flying this specific type. The presence of the passenger during the towing portion of the flight also violated established standard operating procedures, as the demonstration flight itself was unauthorized.