A tragic glider crash at Tunbridge Airfield in Tasmania has claimed the life of a flight student and left the pilot critically injured. The incident occurred on Sunday, December 28, during the glider’s second flight of the day, according to Gliding Australia safety manager Drew McKinnie.
The glider involved was a Twin Astir two-seat model, commonly used for flight training. The accident happened during the launch phase while being towed by the Soaring Club of Tasmania’s Eurofox towplane. The woman, in her early fifties, was participating in an Air Experience Flight (AEF), designed for individuals with limited gliding experience.
Details of the Incident
Tasmania Police reported that the crash occurred around 2 pm at a private airfield on Tunbridge Tier Road. The woman succumbed to her injuries, while the pilot, a man in his mid-sixties, was airlifted to the Royal Hobart Hospital with serious injuries. Inspector Aleena Crack of Tasmania Police noted that the woman was part of a group at the airfield, which included her husband.
The launch method involved in the crash, known as Aerotow, is a standard procedure where a powered aircraft tows the glider to a desired altitude before releasing it. This method is widely used for launching unpowered gliders.
Response and Investigation
In the wake of the accident, Gliding Australia has expressed condolences to the families and communities affected. “Gliding Australia extends its condolences to the family and friends of those affected, as well as members of the Soaring Club of Tasmania and the wider Tasmanian aviation community,” said Drew McKinnie.
The organization has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation led by Tasmanian Police. The investigation will explore various factors, including operational, technical, and airworthiness aspects, through evidence collection and data analysis.
“Gliding Australia will cooperate fully with Tasmanian Police as investigations continue. The investigation will examine operational, technical, and airworthiness factors, including evidence collection and data analysis.” – Drew McKinnie, Gliding Australia
Understanding Gliding and Safety Measures
Gliding, a sport that involves flying unpowered aircraft, is generally considered safe, with stringent safety protocols in place. However, like all aviation activities, it carries inherent risks. The Twin Astir glider, involved in this incident, is a popular choice for flight training due to its robust design and reliability.
Historically, glider accidents are rare, but when they occur, they prompt thorough investigations to enhance safety measures. The current investigation will likely focus on the glider’s mechanical condition, the towplane’s performance, and weather conditions at the time of the crash.
Looking Ahead
The gliding community in Tasmania and beyond is now focused on understanding the causes of this tragic accident to prevent future occurrences. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in shaping future training and safety protocols.
Meanwhile, the Soaring Club of Tasmania and Gliding Australia are expected to review their operational procedures, ensuring they align with the latest safety standards. The incident serves as a potent reminder of the importance of rigorous safety checks and the need for continuous improvement in aviation safety practices.
As the investigation unfolds, the aviation community will be keenly watching for insights that could lead to enhanced safety measures, ensuring that the joy of gliding remains accessible and safe for enthusiasts worldwide.
