On February 6, 1988, a Cessna 177 (registration N313AC) operated by Robert L. Vaughan was involved in an aviation accident near Petersburg, VA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot unable to start the engine with the starter attempted hand-propping. After the third attempt, the engine started, and the aircraft moved forward, knocking down the pilot and colliding with a parked Piper Arrow.
Incident Overview
A pilot was unable to start an aircraft's engine using the starter. The aircraft had recently been refueled and was positioned next to the fuel pumps. The pilot pushed the aircraft away from the pumps before attempting to hand-prop the engine.
Hand-Prop Attempts
After the third hand-prop attempt, the engine started. As the pilot tried to board the aircraft, it moved forward. The pilot was knocked down by the landing gear. The aircraft continued moving until it struck a Piper Arrow that was parked next to the fuel pumps.
Aftermath
The aircraft came to a stop after contacting the Piper Arrow. The incident involved no further details regarding injuries or damage beyond the collision with the parked aircraft.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Feb 1988 Cessna 177 accident near Petersburg, VA?
A pilot unable to start the engine with the starter attempted hand-propping. After the third attempt, the engine started, and the aircraft moved forward, knocking down the pilot and colliding with a parked Piper Arrow.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Feb 1988 involved a Cessna 177, registration N313AC, operated by Robert L. Vaughan, at Petersburg, VA.
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