# NTSB Accident LAX04LA203
> **Schleicher ASW-20** · 2004-05-08 · Reno, NV, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** LAX04LA203
- **Event ID:** 20040511X00591
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 2004-05-08
- **Location:** Reno, NV, USA
- **Coordinates:** 39.933334, -119.683334
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 1
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 1
## Aircraft
- **Make:** Schleicher
- **Model:** ASW-20
- **Registration:** N126PS
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 0
- **Damage:** DEST
## Conditions
- **Light:** DAYL
- **Weather:** VMC
## Probable cause

the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate airspeed margin while performing a return to runway maneuver, which led to a stall and spin.  Factors in the accident were:  1) the deteriorated condition of the glider towrope, which resulted in towrope failure during a critical phase of the tow; 2) the duct tape covering over the abraided portion of the failed rope end that made inspection of the rope difficult; and, 3) the gusty winds and turbulence.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=LAX04LA203) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*