On February 26, 1989, a Cessna 172I (registration N8359L) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Washington, MD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The passenger's failure to avoid the rotating propeller while boarding an aircraft with its engine running. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A passenger was struck by the propeller of a running aircraft while attempting to board, sustaining injuries that were not immediately apparent.
What happened
The aircraft was stationary on the ramp with the pilot inside and the engine running. A passenger approached the aircraft from the front, intending to enter through the right-side door. As she moved toward the entrance, she passed in front of the propeller arc. The rotating blades struck her during this approach.
Findings
The extent of the injuries sustained by the passenger was not immediately apparent at the time of impact. According to the pilot, the passenger stated that she had only been grazed by the propeller. She did not realize the full scope of her injuries until after she successfully boarded the aircraft.
Probable cause
The passenger's failure to avoid the rotating propeller while boarding an aircraft with its engine running.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Feb 1989 Cessna 172I accident near Fort Washington, MD?
A passenger was struck by the propeller of a running aircraft while attempting to board, sustaining injuries that were not immediately apparent.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Feb 1989 Cessna 172I accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Feb 1989 involved a Cessna 172I, registration N8359L, at Fort Washington, MD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The passenger's failure to avoid the rotating propeller while boarding an aircraft with its engine running.
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