What happened
The incident occurred when an aircraft sustained damage after striking a hangar structure. The sequence of events began with the pilot attempting to start the engine using a manual method involving direct contact with the rotating propeller blades. This procedure was executed without a qualified individual present in the cockpit to manage the flight controls.
The aircraft had been borrowed by the pilot, who was aware that the onboard battery was in a low state. Despite this known deficiency, the pilot proceeded with the start attempt. A non-pilot occupied the right front seat during the operation. As the engine started, the aircraft unexpectedly rolled forward. The pilot was unable to enter the cockpit and reach the controls in time to stop the movement. Consequently, the aircraft continued its forward motion until it impacted the hangar.
The investigation
Examination of the event revealed that the primary mechanical factor was the low battery condition of the borrowed aircraft. This deficiency likely contributed to the inability to maintain control or prevent unintended movement during the start sequence. The lack of a qualified pilot in the cockpit meant there was no one available to apply brakes or manage thrust immediately upon engine ignition.
Findings
The accident was caused by several critical failures in procedure and safety protocols. The most significant factor was the decision to hand-prop the aircraft without a qualified person in the cockpit. This is a prohibited practice in standard aviation operations due to the immediate need for control inputs. Additionally, the pilot proceeded with the start despite knowing the battery was low, which compromised the electrical systems necessary for safe operation.
The presence of a non-pilot in the right front seat further complicated the situation, as they lacked the authority and training to assist with flight controls. The combination of these actions led directly to the uncontrolled roll forward and subsequent collision with the hangar.
Safety message
Aviation safety protocols strictly prohibit hand-propping an aircraft without a qualified pilot in the cockpit. This rule exists to ensure that immediate control inputs can be made if the engine starts unexpectedly or behaves abnormally. Pilots must also verify all system statuses, including battery health, before attempting any start procedure. Borrowing an aircraft requires thorough pre-flight checks to identify potential issues like low power sources.