Harrisonburg, VA, USA
N93911
Ercoupe (Eng & Research Corp.) 415-C
Same as Factual Information
According to the pilot, after arriving at his destination airport and shutting off the airplane, he discovered that the "battery was too light" to start the engine again. After shutting off the fuel, he then attempted to hand start the airplane. He was able to start the engine, however; it "revved well beyond what was normal." He expected the engine to stall out, but it did not and the airplane moved forward, rolled down a steep embankment and struck trees, substantially damaging the airplane. According to FAA publication FAA-P-8740-20, "No one should attempt to start an aircraft engine without a qualified person at the cockpit controls."
The pilot's improper engine starting procedure, resulting in an uncontrolled taxi, and collision with trees.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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