Alexander Schleicher K7, VH-UKY, Gulgong NSW, 31 October 1987

198702432

Summary

The pilot was attempting to complete a solo flight of at least one hour duration as part of the qualification for the issue of a C Gliding Certificate. Witnesses reported that during the winch launch, the glider lifted off too early, and then assumed the climb attitude before sufficient airspeed had been obtained. The pilot stated that she released from the winch cable when she became aware that the airspeed was too low. At about the same time the right wing dropped and the aircraft turned through about one and a half revolutions before impacting the ground with the right wingtip. The pilot had attempted to correct for the wing drop with aileron control inputs, which were ineffective at the low airspeed.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198702432
Occurrence date 31/10/1987
Location Gulgong
Report release date 11/05/1988
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 None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Alexander Schleicher Segelflugzeugbau
Model K7
Registration VH-UKY
Serial number 889
Operation type Gliding
Departure point Gulgong NSW
Destination Gulgong NSW
Damage Substantial