On October 6, 1989, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8222F) operated by Fritz, Michael A. was involved in an aviation accident near Jefferson City, MO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to see and avoid a tied-down aircraft while taxiing in poor visibility conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot failed to notice a secured, unoccupied aircraft while taxiing for an IFR flight on a dark, rainy night, resulting in damage to the wing and propeller.
What happened
The incident occurred during nighttime operations under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions. The pilot was taxiing the aircraft from its parking area toward the active runway in preparation for departure. Visibility was significantly reduced due to dark night conditions accompanied by light to moderate rainfall.
While maneuvering on the ground, the pilot failed to observe a secured, unoccupied aircraft that was tied down in transient parking. The moving aircraft collided with the stationary one. The impact resulted in damage to the wing and propeller of the aircraft being operated.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to see and avoid a tied-down aircraft while taxiing in poor visibility conditions.
What happened in the 6 Oct 1989 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Jefferson City, MO?
A pilot failed to notice a secured, unoccupied aircraft while taxiing for an IFR flight on a dark, rainy night, resulting in damage to the wing and propeller.
Were there any fatalities in the 6 Oct 1989 Piper PA-28-161 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Oct 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8222F, operated by Fritz, Michael A., at Jefferson City, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to see and avoid a tied-down aircraft while taxiing in poor visibility conditions.
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