A Question of Safety

ACCIDENTS

Six accidents or occurrences have been reported since the last issue.

A self launch takeoff where the propeller contacted a filter, necessitating engine shutdown and an emergency landing. The glider was damaged but the pilot not injured.

An aerotow launch in cross-wind conditions. The combination drifted from the intended line and separately struck obstacles. No injuries but both towplane and the glider were damaged.

A self launch where the glider bounced and the undercarriage collapsed.

An aerotow upset - the glider suffered stress damage but landed safely.

A canopy opened in flight and the perspex shattered.

A wheel up landing.

As can be seen four of the occurrences were in the takeoff phase of flight. The significance of the E (Eventualities) in the pretakeoff checks should not be overlooked.

Biennial Flight Reviews (BFR’s). A question that arises is whether, for those holding both an Aeroplane Pilot Licence and a Glider Pilot Licence or Certificate, they need to do Glider BFR’s if their Aeroplane Licence BFR is current.

The short answer is “Yes” - a Glider BFR must be completed.

CAR Part 149 sets the requirements to fly a glider in NZ. Essentially, a Glider Pilot must have a Glider Pilot Certificate (or operate under the direct supervision of a Gliding Instructor) and comply with the operating procedures of a gliding organisation: - the GNZ Manual of Approved Procedures. The MOAP is part of the suite of documents that underpin the GNZ Part 149 Certification. The MOAP requires a Gliding BFR be completed at least each 24 months.

AUCKLAND GLIDING CLUB wishes to announce its 80th Birthday on Saturday 30 April 2011

This is planned to be a big event with many activities happening during the day. Also important is an evening dinner which will enable many past and present members to socialise at the clubs very own airfield at Drury. The present members wish to show their appreciation to those that have built the club to what it is now. They also wish to invite any people with an interest in the clubs activities over the last 80 years, or on into the future, to come along and enjoy this momentous event.

Please contact Ross at sailplaneservices@xtra.co.nz or our secretary Russell Thorne thorner@xtra.co.nz or more information.