TRUCKEE, CA, USA
N2423W
SCHWEIZER SGS 1-26B
THE STUDENT GLIDER PILOT RELEASED FROM THE TOW AIRPLANE WITHOUT COMMUNICATING WITH THE TOW PILOT. THE GLIDER PROCEEDED IN A NORTHEAST DIRECTION TOWARD THE LEE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAINS. THE SURFACE WIND WAS FROM THE SOUTHWEST. THE GLIDER WAS OBSERVED AT A LOW ALTITUDE DISAPPEARING OVER A RIDGE. THE AIRCRAFT STRUCK A 50 FT TREE ABOUT 10 FEET FROM THE TOP THEN COLLIDED WITH THE GROUND.
THE PILOT'S IMPROPER DECISION TO RELEASE FROM THE TOW AIRPLANE AT AN INSUFFICIENT ALTITUDE ON THE LEE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAINS.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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