On March 10, 1995, a Cessna 172L (registration N4383Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Smyrna, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S FAILURE TO ENSURE THAT THE MAGNETOS WERE NOT ENERGIZED PRIOR TO POSITIONING THE PROPELLER, AND THE DUAL STUDENT'S FAILURE TO PLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH IN THE OFF POSITION AFTER THE FIRST START ATTEMPT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A flight instructor was seriously injured when a propeller struck his arm and leg during hand propping after an unsuccessful first start. The instructor believes the student did not turn off the ignition switch after the first attempt, contrary to briefing.
Event Overview
A flight instructor was engaged in hand propping an aircraft's engine due to an inoperative starter solenoid. The student was seated in the left cockpit seat and tasked with operating the engine controls. The first start attempt was unsuccessful. For the second attempt, the instructor repositioned the propeller. No hand signals were given prior to this attempt. When the engine fired, the propeller contacted the instructor's arm and leg, resulting in serious injuries.
Instructor's Account
According to the instructor, the student likely did not return the ignition switch to the off position after the first start attempt. This action was contrary to the pre-briefed procedure. The instructor believes this lapse allowed the engine to start unexpectedly during the second attempt, leading to the propeller strike and subsequent injuries.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Mar 1995 Cessna 172L accident near Smyrna, TN?
A flight instructor was seriously injured when a propeller struck his arm and leg during hand propping after an unsuccessful first start. The instructor believes the student did not turn off the ignition switch after the first attempt, contrary to briefing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Mar 1995 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N4383Q, at Smyrna, TN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S FAILURE TO ENSURE THAT THE MAGNETOS WERE NOT ENERGIZED PRIOR TO POSITIONING THE PROPELLER, AND THE DUAL STUDENT'S FAILURE TO PLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH IN THE OFF POSITION AFTER THE FIRST START ATTEMPT.
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