Double Release Failure

On Sep 7, 7:05*pm, ZZ wrote:
It is likely that the probability of an ACTUAL double release failure on
tow is what ever positive number is closest to zero. Of course that
doesn't mean that Mr.Murphy can't serve one of these up.

I would be interested in hearing any accounts of actual, non-instructor
induced double release failures which required either a landing on tow
or purposely breaking he rope to end the problem.

I would also be interested in any opinions regarding practicing landing
on tow to prepare oneself for this unlikely event. (I know that this is
or was a required maneuver in some European countries...but is it worth
the risk?)

Paul
ZZ

I had a release failure (mostly) on my Open Cirrus (CG hook) once. I
landed one thermal short of home plate at a neighboring glider club
(UK). I handed a cheque out the clear vision panel and took a
launch. When I got to altitude and distance, I pulled the release.
Nothing. I pulled another dozen times in rapid succession, nothing.
I called the tow plane on the radio, no answer. Called several more
time, nothing. I flew out to the left and waggled the wings, no
response from the tow plane. I was hoping he wasn't going to give me
the "bugger off" wing waggle and turn back. A few more pulls and it
let go thankfully. Next step would have been to put in the slack
and break it. Seemed a long time, but really only a few moments. The
TOST hook was replaced before the next flight. No broken springs,
just wear.

So, I guess it really depends on how you define release failure.

Frank Whiteley