On March 24, 1993, a Beech V35B (registration N18368) operated by Daly, William G. was involved in an aviation accident near Key Largo, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S COMPLACENCY AND DECISION TO LEAVE THE AIRCRAFT CONTROLS UNATTENDED WITH THE ENGINE OPERATING AND WITHOUT SETTING THE PARKING BRAKE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While checking a tire, a pilot exited an idling aircraft without engaging the parking brake. The engine surged, the aircraft rolled forward, struck the pilot, then crossed a road and hit a tree and dumpster.
Incident Overview
A pilot started the aircraft's engine and moved the aircraft forward several feet. He then reduced the throttle to idle and exited the aircraft to check a tire. The pilot did not apply the parking brake before disembarking.
Sequence of Events
While examining the tire from in front of the right wing, the pilot heard the engine cough a few times and then increase in speed. The aircraft began to roll forward. In an attempt to stop it, the pilot pushed on the right wing. The aircraft rotated 150 degrees, and the pilot was knocked to the ground. The aircraft then traveled across a road and collided with a tree and a trash dumpster.
Factors
The pilot's failure to set the parking brake was noted in the sequence of events. No other factors were mentioned in the source.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Mar 1993 Beech V35B accident near Key Largo, FL?
While checking a tire, a pilot exited an idling aircraft without engaging the parking brake. The engine surged, the aircraft rolled forward, struck the pilot, then crossed a road and hit a tree and dumpster.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Mar 1993 involved a Beech V35B, registration N18368, operated by Daly, William G., at Key Largo, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S COMPLACENCY AND DECISION TO LEAVE THE AIRCRAFT CONTROLS UNATTENDED WITH THE ENGINE OPERATING AND WITHOUT SETTING THE PARKING BRAKE.
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