Witnesses Described That The Glider Pitched Up Before Entering A Nose Low, Left Descending Turn

Location: Waynesville, Ohio Accident Number: ERA24FA362
Date & Time: August 30, 2024, 13:21 Local Registration: N264JM
Aircraft: Schleicher Alexander GMBH & CO ASH 26 E Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The 84-year-old pilot was being towed for takeoff in his glider when the accident occurred. According to the tow pilot, the glider became airborne earlier than normal and climbed above and to the left of the tow plane. The glider started pulling the tail of the tow plane up and the tow pilot had to release the glider when they were about 100 to 150 ft above the ground. Witnesses described that the glider pitched up before entering a nose low, left descending turn that continue to ground impact on the grass runway. Postaccident examination of the glider revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

The witnesses also stated that the pilot acted and sounded normal before the accident; however, once airborne, his actions were not consistent with his normal flying habits. The witnesses described him as an active glider pilot who was meticulous and very conservative with his flying. Postaccident toxicological testing of blood and liver samples from the pilot detected the drugs Metformin and Pravastatin. These medications are not considered impairing and likely did not pose a hazard to flight or contribute to the accident. An autopsy of the pilot did not detect that he had a medical event that would have contributed to the accident. Since no mechanical or medical issues were identified, the investigation was not able to determine why the pilot lost control on takeoff.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- A loss of control on takeoff for undetermined reasons.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov