On July 22, 1995, a Cessna 337H (registration N53449) was involved in an aviation accident near Holland, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure that all passengers remained clear of the propeller arc during ground operations. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A passenger sustained injuries after walking into the rear of a propeller while wiping dew from the windshield during ground operations.
What happened
During ground operations, a passenger exited the aircraft to wipe dew off the windshield. While performing this task, she walked into the rear side of the front propeller. The pilot stated that he tried to stop the passenger when he realized she was exiting the airplane, but was unable to, so he shut the fuel flow off to the engines.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the injury. The pilot's account indicated an attempt to intervene upon noticing the passenger's exit, followed by immediate engine shutdown.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure that all passengers remained clear of the propeller arc during ground operations.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Jul 1995 Cessna 337H accident near Holland, MI?
A passenger sustained injuries after walking into the rear of a propeller while wiping dew from the windshield during ground operations.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jul 1995 involved a Cessna 337H, registration N53449, at Holland, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure that all passengers remained clear of the propeller arc during ground operations.
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