Investigation number
198702453
Occurrence date
Location
3 km E of Tumut
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Airframe - Other
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The glider was undergoing a test flight following an annual inspection. After being released the aircraft was climbed to 4300 feet prior to the commencement of a high speed descent. At an indicated airspeed of 110 knots the pilot reported that there was a slight buffet from the tailplane area. The descent was continued and at an indicated airspeed between 118 and 122 knots severe vibrations from the tailplane area were encountered. The airspeed was reduced and after completing a control check the aircraft was landed. Subsequent inspection revealed damage to the rear fuselage near the fin root. This accident was investigated by the Gliding Federation of Australia and was not the subject of an on-site investigation by the Bureau. The Federation's investigation indicated that the amount of freeplay in the horizontal tailplane of the aircraft was just within the limits specified in the manufacturer's manual the pilot was inexperienced for the task he may have actually reached VNE and his reaction to the vibration may have overstressed the aircraft.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd
Model
PC-11
Registration
VH-GCF
Serial number
N/K
Operation type
Gliding
Departure point
Tumut NSW
Departure time
1330
Destination
Tumut NSW
Damage
Substantial