Introduction
On 2 August 1984, a Morane Saulnier MS-883, registration CS-AIN, owned by the Aero Clube de Chaves, was involved in a ground accident at Bragança Aerodrome. The aircraft was parked at the aerodrome when the pilot attempted to start its engine.
Events
The pilot, holder of a Private Pilot Licence (PPA/1), was preparing to return to Chaves. Unable to start the engine using the starter motor, he resorted to hand-propping the propeller. The engine started at an accelerated power setting. As the aircraft was not chocked and possibly not properly braked, it began to roll forward and collided with the hangar wall.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained no injuries. The aircraft suffered substantial damage, including bent propeller blades, damaged engine mount, and fuselage and wing dents. The hangar wall sustained minor damage.
Investigation Findings
A brake test conducted after the accident on the aircraft at the Bragança hangar found that the braking system was functioning satisfactorily. No mechanical anomalies were detected in the aircraft's systems. The pilot was certified and qualified for the flight.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to start the engine using the starter motor, likely due to a low battery, leading him to hand-prop the engine. He did not chock the aircraft, did not apply the brakes properly, and may have left the throttle lever more advanced than appropriate for the hand-propping procedure.
Recommendations
The report recommended that the role of Technical Director within flying clubs be reinforced, that private pilots not neglect basic safety rules when flying solo, and that the civil aviation authority increase its oversight of clubs with flying activity.