Gyroglider, N/A, Penfield VIC, 6 March 1983

198302312

Summary

The gyroglider was being towed in alternate directions along a strip. There was a 10 knot wind component along the strip direction and the temperature was 34 degrees Celsius. During one downwind towing sequence the wind speed increased. The pilot signalled for a higher towing speed, but as the vehicle driver had been instructed to observe a limit of 80 kph, he did not increase speed further. The gyroglider subsequently landed heavily and overturned. The high density altitude conditions, coupled with the gusting tailwind and aircraft weight approaching the maximum permissible, required a towing airspeed higher than normal. Towing speed was limited by fixed ground speed limits.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198302312
Occurrence date 06/03/1983
Location Penfield
Report release date 23/11/1984
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Loss of control
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Serious

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Amateur Built Aircraft
Model Gyroglider
Operation type Flying Training
Departure point Penfield VIC
Destination Penfield VIC
Damage Destroyed