NTSB Factual Report

On October 21, 1995, about 1710 central daylight time, a Glasflugel Mosquito, N237B, registered to an individual, crashed near Dunlap, Tennessee, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft was destroyed and the commercial-rated pilot was fatally injured. The flight originated from Matthews Field, Dunlap, Tennessee, about 1318.

The pilots of three other gliders observed N237B, a glider, flying along a ridge about 400 to 500 feet above the trees. The glider appeared to be flying at a slow speed. The nose of the glider pitched up and the glider stalled and entered a spin. After 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 turns the glider impacted in the ground in a nose-down attitude.

Postcrash examination of the glider by an FAA inspector showed that all components of the glider were located on or around the main wreckage. Continuity of the flight control systems was established.

Post-mortem examination of the pilot was performed by Charles W. Harlan, M.D., Office of the State Medical Examiner, Nashville, Tennessee. The cause of death was attributed to multiple injuries. No findings that could be considered causal to the accident were noted. Post mortem toxicology testing on specimens obtained from the pilot was performed by Dr. Harlan. The tests were negative for ethanol alcohol and basic, acidic, and neutral drugs. For additional medical and pathological information see Supplement K and the toxicology report.

NTSB Probable Cause

the failure of the pilot to maintain airspeed resulting in a spin at an altitude insufficient for recovery.