NTSB Factual Report

On July 29, 2004, about 1015 central daylight time, a Schweizer SGS 2-33 glider, N33950, piloted by a private pilot and designated pilot examiner, received substantial damage during landing after simulating a towline break on initial climb after takeoff. The glider was landing on the turf adjacent to runway 36 at the Skyhaven Airport near Warrensburg, Missouri. The 14 CFR Part 91 flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. No injuries were reported. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot reported that during the takeoff the examiner released the glider from the tow-plane to simulate a towline break. He stated that the release was made about 200 feet above the ground. The pilot reported that during the subsequent landing, a gust of wind raised the right wing of the glider causing the left wing to contact the ground. The pilot reported that due to the 8 to 10 inch tall grass the glider veered to the left. The glider subsequently impacted a barbed-wire fence.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compaensation for the winds, and his inability to maintain directional control of the glider after encountering tall grass during the landing roll. The reported wind gust, tall grass, and the fence were contributing factors.