There was a fatal accident in the U.K. when the glider being launched got
the launching wire over a wing. The guillotine was fired by the winch
driver, but failed to cut the wire (which was of course being pulled out by
the glider). It is not certain that cutting the wire would have saved the
pilot, but he had little chance with it uncut.

As a consequence of this accident we are very aware in the U.K. of the
necessity for a reliable method of cutting the cable. The guillotine was
re-designed, and they are now regularly serviced and tested in accordance
with a laid-down schedule.

So the answers to your question are; yes, the winch driver could see the
problem, the guillotine failed to cut the wire.

W.J. (Bill) Dean (U.K.).
Remove "ic" to reply.


"Bob Johnson" wrote in message
...

snip

Wondering about guillotines in general, I know it's always good to have
one, but has anyone in earshot actually used one? If so, what were the
circumstances, line running or still, weak link or no, spring, gravity
or muscle powered, radios or how did you know and like that.

Bob Johnson