Incident Overview
A ground lineman was assisting with an external power unit connection for an aircraft. After the engines were started, the lineman disconnected the power unit. The pilot noted the disconnect and proceeded with the pre-taxi checklist. When the pilot looked up to locate the lineman, he saw an individual walking away from the airplane and assumed it was the lineman who had been assisting him. The pilot released the brakes and initiated forward movement.
Sequence of Events
The lineman, however, had not left the aircraft. He was still positioned next to the airplane at the external power receptacle, which was located on the right side of the nose, in front of the propeller. As the aircraft moved forward, the right propeller struck both the lineman and the power unit.
Toxicology Findings
A toxicology check of the lineman's blood showed an alcohol level of 0.037%.