SCHWEIZER SGU 2-22CK
Ephrata, WA — July 24, 2009
Event Information
| Date | July 24, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR09CA368 |
| Event ID | 20090724X80401 |
| Location | Ephrata, WA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 47.30472, -119.51667 |
| Airport | Ephrata Municipal Airport |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | SCHWEIZER |
| Model | SGU 2-22CK |
| Category | GLI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The premature launch signal given by the wing walker.
Full Narrative
The certified flight instructor (CFI) and student pilot were onboard the glider readying it for an automobile tow launch. The CFI reported giving the 'take up slack' command to the wing walker, who was steadying the wings. Before the slack was taken up by the tow vehicle driver, the wing walker prematurely gave the launch signal. The tow driver then accelerated and the glider was suddenly launched into the air. The CFI attempted to control the glider by applying full forward elevator and simultaneously attempting to release the tow line. The glider struck the ground with the line still attached and was again launched into the air as the tow truck continued to accelerate. The tow line then released and the nose of the glider struck the ground. The glider sustained substantial damage to the aft fuselage structure during the accident sequence.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.