1 fatality

Passenger Walks into Turning Propeller After Deplaning (N757LD)

Swanton, VT, US

On August 10, 1988, a Cessna 152 (registration N757LD) operated by Donald Manchester was involved in an aviation accident near Swanton, VT. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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's wife, on her first flight, exited the aircraft on the right side, ducked under the wing strut, and walked into the spinning propeller despite the pilot's warning.

Incident Overview

A pilot took his wife on a short flight, which was her first time flying. She was described as apprehensive about the experience.

Post-Landing Sequence

After landing, the pilot taxied to the terminal building to allow his wife to deplane. He stopped the aircraft with the left wing facing the building and left the engine running. The pilot reported that he advised his wife to walk wide of the propeller.

Exit and Accident

His wife exited the aircraft from the right side. She then ducked under the wing strut and walked directly into the turning propeller. The pilot was unable to stop her or shut down the engine in time to prevent the contact.

Witness Observation

A witness reported that the passenger appeared to be in a hurry at the time of the incident.

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Aug 1988 Cessna 152 accident near Swanton, VT?

A pilot's wife, on her first flight, exited the aircraft on the right side, ducked under the wing strut, and walked into the spinning propeller despite the pilot's warning.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Aug 1988 Cessna 152 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Aug 1988 involved a Cessna 152, registration N757LD, operated by Donald Manchester, at Swanton, VT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26684. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.