On March 20, 1988, a Beech 23 (registration N8722M) operated by Raymond Tousignant was involved in an aviation accident near Rutland, VT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a pre-flight hand-prop engine start, the pilot instructed his wife to manage the throttle. She was unable to pull it back as directed, causing the aircraft to move forward and strike another plane while the pilot slipped.
What happened
The incident occurred during the pre-flight preparation phase of a flight. The pilot was preparing to hand-prop the engine to start it. Before leaving the cockpit area to assist with starting the engine, he verified the throttle setting and applied the brakes to secure the aircraft.
He instructed his wife, who was seated in the passenger seat, to pull back on the throttle once the engine started. However, she was unable to perform this action effectively. As a result, the aircraft began to move forward despite the brake application. The aircraft turned to the right and subsequently collided with another parked aircraft. During the initial movement, the pilot slipped and was knocked unconscious.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Mar 1988 Beech 23 accident near Rutland, VT?
During a pre-flight hand-prop engine start, the pilot instructed his wife to manage the throttle. She was unable to pull it back as directed, causing the aircraft to move forward and strike another plane while the pilot slipped.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Mar 1988 involved a Beech 23, registration N8722M, operated by Raymond Tousignant, at Rutland, VT.
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