Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA17CA119

Lakeport, CA, USA

Aircraft #1

N8148T

CESSNA 175

Analysis

The pilot reported that he attempted to start the airplane but that "the starter did not engage the flywheel." He affirmed that he turned off the master switch and exited the airplane. He reported that he was alone when he pulled the propeller through, and the airplane started. The unoccupied airplane rolled across the tarmac and collided with the empennage of a parked airplane. Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that he attempted to start the airplane but "the starter did not engage the flywheel." He affirmed that he turned off the master switch and exited the airplane. He reported that he was alone when he pulled the propeller through and the airplane started. The unoccupied airplane rolled across the tarmac and collided with the empennage of a parked airplane. Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to secure the airplane before pulling the propeller through, which resulted in the airplane rolling and subsequently colliding with a parked airplane.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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