Recognizing and reacting to tow plane engine failure

Dan, I understand. I'd just note that (1) you know two glider pilots who've experienced engine failure, and (2) these were airborne situations. I was talking about ground run engine failure, which I saw happen twice (but not as a glider pilot). I also have seen a near ground (15 foot altitude) rope failure. So I know I should be prepared to handle them.

Glider pilots and tow pilots have an iron-clad covenant that should be talked about, not just silently acknowledged: You do your very best not to kill me, and I'll do my very best not to kill you. Towing is a unique thing in aviation, it's serious business, and it needs to be constantly recognized as such.

Getting out of position on a tow is a cardinal sin for a glider pilot. I know of two people (not me) who did it over the last 10 years. Repercussions were swift and severe, as they should be. Sometimes, though, it's very difficult to stay in position - I've towed out of Minden and Blairstown through rotor on wave and ridge days when this was the case. In those flights I've been ready on the release, and I'd bet the tow pilot was ready on his release, too.

-John, Q3

On Friday, October 24, 2014 12:11:01 PM UTC-4, Dan Marotta wrote:
I've never had a tug fail while in my
glider but I've had two engine failures with gliders behind me and
one after the glider released.

My position on my own engine failure is this:* If I have the time,
I'll get you to a safe position and wave you off.* Failing that,
and I have the time, I'll wave you off.* Failing that, I'll pull
the release and find a safe landing spot for the tug; you're on
your own.

I'm more concerned about the glider who gets way out of position.
I towed for over 25 years before dumping a glider.* Hope I don't
have to do it again.