Glaser Dirks DG600 Glider, BGA 3445 (Tail No 656), 18 September 2005

From:
Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Published
10 December 2014
Category:
Sport aviation and balloons
Report type:
Bulletin - Pre-1997 uncategorised monthly report
Date of occurrence:
18 September 2005
Aircraft type:
Glaser Dirks DG600 Glider
Location:
Ridgewell Airfield near Great Yeldham, Essex
Registration:
BGA 3445 (Tail No 656)

Glaser Dirks DG600 Glider, BGA 3445 (Tail number 656)

Summary:

At a height of approximately 350 feet during a winch launch, the glider was observed to be climbing at a slightly steeper than normal angle. The glider’s airspeed was perceived to be abnormally slow and the winch engine lost rpm. The winch operator adjusted the winch throttle setting to allow the engine to accelerate but this had little effect. The glider stalled, yawed to the right and entered a right-hand spin; during this manoeuvre the cable separated from the glider. Height was insufficient for recovery and the glider struck the ground whilst spinning, fatally injuring the pilot.

Download report:

Glaser Dirks DG600 Glider, BGA 3445 (Tail No 656).pdf (710.04 kb)

Published 10 December 2014