Flight History
On 11 January 2011, at approximately 15:28 UTC, a Robin DR 400/180R, registration I-ITAV, was towing a glider ASK 21, registration I-IVWJ, for a training flight from Guidonia military airport (LIRG). Witnesses observed the tow aircraft, after reaching about 25-30 meters in height during initial climb, suddenly pitch down and impact the runway from which it had just taken off. The impact caused fuel to spill and ignite, largely destroying the aircraft. The glider, with an instructor and a student on board, executed a right turn at low altitude and landed on runway 36 without further consequences.
Aircraft Information
- Tow aircraft: Robin DR 400/180R, registration I-ITAV. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire. Only the right wing half and tail section remained, though severely damaged.
- Glider: ASK 21, registration I-IVWJ. No damage was reported.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot of the tow aircraft sustained fatal injuries. The glider occupants were uninjured. The impact caused scarring of the runway surface, mainly a scar measuring approximately 100 cm by 20 cm by 6 cm, located 900 meters from the threshold markings of runway 18.
Meteorological and Other Information
No specific meteorological or ATC information is available from the source.
The investigation by the Italian National Flight Safety Agency (ANSV) was initiated on the same day.