No fatalities

Pilot Struck by Propeller During Attempt to Reposition It (N733MX)

Panama City, FL, US

On July 25, 1992, a Cessna 172N (registration N733MX) operated by Bay Aero Center, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Panama City, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO STAND CLEAR OF THE PROPELLER AS HE ROTATED IT BY HAND, RESULTING IN THE PROPELLER ROTATING AROUND DUE TO ENGINE COMPRESSION, STRIKING THE PILOT, CAUSING HIM TO LOSE HIS BALANCE AND FALL TO THE RAMP, RESULTING IN SERIOUS… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 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 was trying to start an engine when the starter motor ran but did not turn the engine. Following advice from another pilot, he exited the aircraft to reposition the propeller. As he turned it, the propeller rotated due to engine compression, striking him on the forehead. He lost balance, fell backward, and struck his head on the ramp, resulting in a skull fracture.

Incident Overview

A pilot experienced difficulty starting an aircraft engine. According to his account, the starter motor would run but failed to turn the engine. Seeking guidance, he consulted another pilot, who advised that in such situations, he should exit the aircraft and manually reposition the propeller.

Actions Taken

The pilot turned off the magnetos and exited the aircraft. He then proceeded to turn the propeller by hand. During this action, the propeller rotated unexpectedly due to engine compression. The rotating propeller struck him on the forehead, causing him to lose his balance. He fell backward and struck his head on the ramp, sustaining a skull fracture.

Results

The incident resulted in a serious head injury. No other individuals were involved, and the aircraft itself was not reported damaged. The pilot's account does not specify the aircraft type, registration, or any other details regarding the location or time of the event.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Jul 1992 Cessna 172N accident near Panama City, FL?

A pilot was trying to start an engine when the starter motor ran but did not turn the engine. Following advice from another pilot, he exited the aircraft to reposition the propeller. As he turned it, the propeller rotated due to engine compression, striking him on the forehead. He lost balance, fell backward, and…

Were there any fatalities in the 25 Jul 1992 Cessna 172N accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Jul 1992 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N733MX, operated by Bay Aero Center, Inc., at Panama City, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO STAND CLEAR OF THE PROPELLER AS HE ROTATED IT BY HAND, RESULTING IN THE PROPELLER ROTATING AROUND DUE TO ENGINE COMPRESSION, STRIKING THE PILOT, CAUSING HIM TO LOSE HIS BALANCE AND FALL TO THE RAMP, RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15232. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.