The SSF recognized four factors that frequently appeared when investigation of such accidents were made:  The pilot in command (PIC) is directly responsible and the final authority for operation of the aircraft in accordance with Title  14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 91, section 91.3. It is also the responsibility of the PIC to determine  if the aircraft is in condition for safe flight (14 CFR part 91, section 91.7). During assembly of the glider or sailplane, the  PIC assumes that responsibility.  During the assembly procedure, no outside interference should be allowed. It is difficult to keep observers from attempting  to converse or ask questions, but such action has frequently been the cause of incomplete and/or inaccurate assembly. The  crew person or assistant can be of great assistance by immediately deflecting this unintentional interference. To ensure the glider is properly assembled, the manufacturer’s checklist should be followed and positive control check  performed. The assembly should proceed in a relaxed and thorough manner and never be hurried. Rushing to squeeze in  between landings or to be number one on the grid has resulted in improperly assembled sailplanes and subsequent accidents.  To enhance the checking of the assembly process, it is suggested that the PIC ask another person to assist by examining  critical items to ensure proper installation. This person does not necessarily need to be familiar with a specific aircraft  or manufacturer, but should have a basic understanding of how to assemble a glider or sailplane. If such a person is not  available, the PIC may benefit from explaining to an assistant how each part is installed and attached; in effect, checking  the pilot’s own work.  The following list, although not totally inclusive, offers items that should be checked prior to flight. Failure to have these  items correctly assembled may result in difficult or impossible flight characteristics. With the help of an assistant, and usually  performed by simply walking around the aircraft, starting and ending at the cockpit area, check each of the following items  as appropriate to the aircraft being flown for proper installation and security. After a thorough check of the following items  is complete, a positive control check should be conducted.  A-2 •  Rudder cables attached  •  Safety pin installed •  Elevator control rod attached •  Horizontal tail properly installed •  Control rods attached and properly secured •  Outer wing panels installed •  Safety collars installed •  Safety pins installed •  Locking collars •  Spring-loaded connectors •  Hotellier connectors •  Ailerons, drag devices, flaps •  Control rods attached •  Drag spar pin(s) •  Main wing pin(s) Critical Items  Ensuring Airworthiness  1.  Distractions from other people while assembling the glider, 2.  Failure to follow manufacturer-recommended assembly procedures, 3.  Failure to do a positive control check, and 4.  Rushing the procedure to get into the air. 