Casualties unknown

1987-12-16: Grumman American AA-5 (N7151L) — Elizabethtown, KY

Elizabethtown, KY, US

On December 16, 1987, a Grumman American AA-5 (registration N7151L) was involved in an aviation accident near Elizabethtown, KY. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

After a battery was too weak to crank the engine, a pilot attempted a hand-prop start with a passenger holding the brakes. A gust of wind pushed the aircraft forward, leading to a collision with a parked Learjet.

Incident Details

Following a brief turnaround between flights, the aircraft's battery lacked sufficient charge to start the engine. The pilot opted to hand-prop the engine while a non-rated passenger held the brakes. The pilot briefed the passenger on the procedure, having previously allowed that passenger to operate the brakes during taxiing. The aircraft was not secured with chocks or tied down.

When the pilot pulled the propeller through, the engine started immediately. The passenger retarded the throttle, but before the pilot could reach the cockpit, a strong gust of wind from behind the aircraft pushed it forward. The aircraft began rolling across the ramp. The passenger was unable to stop or steer it away from other aircraft. It subsequently collided with a parked Learjet, and both aircraft sustained substantial damage.

Aircraft and Conditions

The aircraft involved, N7151L, had a castering nosewheel, meaning directional control relied on braking. Examination of its braking system found it to be functional. According to FBO personnel, a power cart for a jump start and wheel chocks were available.

Aftermath

No other details about the location, time, or individuals were provided in the source. The accident resulted in substantial damage to both aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32666. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.