No fatalities

Propeller Strike Injures Pilot and Son During Preflight (N2123R)

Olathe, KS, US

On December 26, 1983, a Cessna 182G (registration N2123R) was involved in an aviation accident near Olathe, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure that all personnel were clear of the propeller arc before rotating it. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot and his son were injured when the aircraft propeller struck them during a preflight engine pull-through in cold weather conditions.

What happened

During a preflight inspection, the pilot was struck on the leg by the aircraft propeller while manually pulling it through. The incident occurred under frigid temperature conditions, which necessitated that the engine had been preheated inside an enclosed hangar prior to the operation. Before attempting to rotate the propeller, the pilot stated that he had primed the engine and inserted the ignition key.

The pilot's son was assisting with the procedure at the time of the incident. He was also struck by the propeller, resulting in a bruised arm for both individuals involved in the operation.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure that all personnel were clear of the propeller arc before rotating it.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Dec 1983 Cessna 182G accident near Olathe, KS?

A pilot and his son were injured when the aircraft propeller struck them during a preflight engine pull-through in cold weather conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Dec 1983 Cessna 182G accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Dec 1983 involved a Cessna 182G, registration N2123R, at Olathe, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure that all personnel were clear of the propeller arc before rotating it.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45370. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.