Primary finding
Probable cause
The glider pilot's decision to perform a low-altitude 360-degree turn while on final approach to land.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The glider pilot entered a right downwind and turned right base, then to final to land north at the airport. He noticed the tow plane on the runway taking off to the south. The pilot elected to make an abrupt right 360 degree turn at about 80 feet above ground level and contacted trees. The glider was destroyed and the pilot sustained serious injuries.
Source record
Factual narrative
The glider pilot entered a right downwind and turned right base, then to final to land north at the Airport. He noticed the tow plane on the runway taking off south bound. The pilot elected to make an abrupt right 360 degree turn at about 80 feet above ground level and contacted trees. The glider was destroyed and the pilot sustained serious non life threatening injuries.