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