Ramy wrote:

I think the only solution is mandatory operating radios in both glider
and tow plane and always make a radio check before take off. Even if
the frequency is busy at the moment, I think there is a good chance
the transmission will be heard due to the close proximity of the tow
plane and glider.

I like having radios in both aircraft, but there are also other options
for some pilots:

*DG owners can install factory approved Piggot hooks that will prevent
the spoilers from opening completely.

*Pilots with Experimentally licensed gliders may be able to install a
similar device on their glider.

*Other glider owners can install a "spoiler unlocked during takeoff"
warning system. I did this using my Cambridge 302, which will sound off
if the spoilers are unlocked as the speed goes above 20 knots during the
start of the launch. This is a good choice for self-launchers, since
there won't be a tow pilot to help them notice the problem.

*Pilots buying gliders can choose one that won't deploy the spoilers,
even if they are unlocked. The ASW 27 (and later Schleicher models, I
assume) has angled spoiler caps to achieve this, and I think Mosquito
style glide path control flaps will not open unless held open.

--
Eric Greenwell - Washington State, USA
* Change "netto" to "net" to email me directly

* Updated! "Transponders in Sailplanes" http://tinyurl.com/y739x4
* New Jan '08 - sections on Mode S, TPAS, ADS-B, Flarm, more

* "A Guide to Self-launching Sailplane Operation" at www.motorglider.org