Investigation number
198600714
Occurrence date
Location
Gawler
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Miscellaneous - Other
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

Before lining up for takeoff, the motor glider pilot estimated that there would be sufficient time for his takeoff to be completed between a landing glider, and the tug aircraft that had just joined the circuit. The takeoff was delayed by the time taken to clear the landing glider from the strip. The tug aircraft, just prior to turning final, was observed to increase power and head towards the departing motor glider which had just commenced its takeoff run. It passed low over the motor glider and the tow rope struck the right aileron of that aircraft. The glider pilot had lined his aircraft up for takeoff on the strip the tug pilot intended to use for landing. The tug pilot stated that his intention was to teach the glider pilot a lesson not to attempt to takeoff in front of him again. In taking this action the tug pilot forgot that the tow rope was still attached and trailing his aircraft.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Glaser-Dirks
Model
DG-400
Registration
VH-HDE
Operation type
Gliding
Departure point
Gawler SA
Departure time
N/A
Destination
Waikerie SA
Damage
Substantial