Incident Overview
The pilot attempted to hand prop the engine of the aircraft. After approximately 20 attempts, the engine started. The aircraft, which was unmanned at the time, began to taxi under its own power and struck a building. The pilot's four-year-old daughter was seated in the right front seat and was the sole occupant of the aircraft.
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot, he had tied down the tail and set the brakes prior to the hand propping attempt. After the engine started, he jumped onto the right wing and dragged his feet in an effort to slow the airplane. This action caused the airplane to slow and turn, directing it toward the building.
Pilot's Statement
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had received previous instructions in hand propping and if a qualified pilot in the type of aircraft had been at the controls.