Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Piper PA-23 During Engine Start Attempt (N3204Q)

Redding, CA, US

On November 26, 1983, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N3204Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Redding, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempting to start an aircraft exited to manually rotate the propeller after the starter failed; the engine ignited, the aircraft moved, and the pilot was knocked off the wing during a collision with a parked Piper PA-23.

Event Sequence

The pilot of an aircraft reported that when attempting to start the engine, the starter would not turn the engine over. Suspecting that the oil had congealed, the pilot exited the aircraft and manually pulled the propeller. At that moment, the engine started and the aircraft began to move forward. The pilot jumped onto the right wing in an effort to enter the cockpit and shut down the engine. However, before reaching the cockpit, the aircraft collided with a Piper PA-23, registration N200SA. The impact knocked the pilot off the wing, resulting in injury.

Examination Findings

Post-accident examination of the pilot's aircraft revealed that the starter gear was extended, the retainer bushing was missing, and corrosion was present on the rotator shaft. Additionally, the magneto switch was found in the "Both" position, the fuel boost pump was set to "High", and the throttle was open approximately three-quarters.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Nov 1983 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Redding, CA?

A pilot attempting to start an aircraft exited to manually rotate the propeller after the starter failed; the engine ignited, the aircraft moved, and the pilot was knocked off the wing during a collision with a parked Piper PA-23.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Nov 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N3204Q, at Redding, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45125. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.