AAIB investigation to Schleicher ASW 20 L, G-CFRW
Glider released from aerotow shortly after takeoff and pitched down, striking the ground at high speed, near Pulborough West Sussex, 24 September 2022.
Summary:
Shortly after an aerotow takeoff and during a noise abatement turn to the left, the glider released the tow at approximately 300 ft agl. The glider then pitched down rapidly and struck the ground in a nose low attitude at high speed. The pilot was ejected from the aircraft during the accident sequence and was found approximately 26 m from the aircraft. He sustained fatal injuries.
An on-site inspection of the aircraft revealed that the elevator was not connected to the elevator control rod. Two Safety Recommendations have been made; the first to mandate Positive Control Checks and the second to amend the Flight and Operations Manual to include relevant information on the limitations of pitch control using flaps.
Download report:
Safety Recommendation Document: