On January 8, 1996, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5505W) was involved in an aviation accident near Decatur, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to follow proper starting procedures, and an inadequate tie-down. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot was struck by the left main wheel of an airplane after hand-propping it without a person at the controls. The airplane traveled 300 feet before coming to rest against a windsock.
Incident Details
The pilot was hand-propping the airplane without a person at the controls. The airplane moved forward, causing the tie-down chain to snap. In an attempt to stop the airplane, the pilot jumped onto the left wing. Realizing that the wing was about to impact a windsock pole, the pilot jumped from the airplane. As the pilot jumped, the left main wheel struck him. The airplane continued traveling approximately 300 feet before coming to rest with its left wing against the windsock.
Pilot's Account
In his report, the pilot recommended having 'a qualified individual in the cockpit when attempting to prop an aircraft.'
What happened in the 8 Jan 1996 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Decatur, TX?
A pilot was struck by the left main wheel of an airplane after hand-propping it without a person at the controls. The airplane traveled 300 feet before coming to rest against a windsock.
Were there any fatalities in the 8 Jan 1996 Piper PA-28-160 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Jan 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5505W, at Decatur, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to follow proper starting procedures, and an inadequate tie-down.
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