Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary LAX99LA306

SAN JOSE, CA, USA

Aircraft #1

N534CA

Cessna 172N

Analysis

The airplane's left wingtip struck a pole as the pilot was taxiing for takeoff. The pilot reported that his vision was impaired as he taxied westbound into the setting late afternoon sun. He saw an aircraft parked on his right and did not notice the pole on his left. He also reported the taxiway centerline was badly faded.

Factual Information

On September 11, 1999, at 1802 hours Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 172N, N534CA, was substantially damaged when the left wingtip struck a pole during taxi for takeoff at Reid-Hillview of Santa Clara County Airport, San Jose, California. The private pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions existed for the personal flight. The airplane was operated by Concord Flight International, Inc., and rented by the pilot under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The flight was destined for Concord, California, and no flight plan was filed. The pilot reported that his vision was impaired as he taxied westbound into the setting late afternoon sun. He saw an aircraft parked on his right and did not notice the pole on his left. He also reported the taxiway centerline was badly faded.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain an adequate visual lookout during taxi. Sun glare was a factor in the accident.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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