Cessna 150
Flight Crew Commercial; Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 80; Flight Crew Total 2005; Flight Crew Type 1630
Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Loss Of Aircraft Control
Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control
Aircraft
I was the tow pilot in the tow plane. The takeoff was uneventful as well as the climb out. About 3 miles west of the field and approximately 2;400 feet AGL [the glider pilot] radioed me that the rear canopy had come loose and was open. I didn't feel anything unusual in the tow plane at this time regarding any excess drag or yaw. I looked over my shoulder through the back window of the tow plane and saw the canopy open. I asked him if he wanted me to tow him back to the airport within safe gliding range. At that time the tail of the tow plane drastically and rapidly lifted up putting me in a downward direction. Shortly thereafter the rope snapped. We both recovered from the unusual attitude and low altitude and returned back to the airport.There was no damage to the tow plane. The glider landed and some damage was recognized; mainly the rear canopy was missing and the front canopy glass had cracked; the majority of the front canopy was also missing. There was also some damage to the fiberglass on the nose section of the glider. Other light marks were noticed as well.No bodily injuries were encountered.
C150 glider-tow pilot reported the glider's canopy came open and the glider entered an unusual attitude; snapping the tow rope.