On May 7, 1996, a Piper PA-60-600 (registration N222KD) was involved in an aviation accident near Syracuse, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to ensure that his hand would remain clear of the propeller, while attempting to take remedial action to secure the clam shell door. The unlatching and separation of the clam shell door from the aircraft were related factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot sustained a serious hand injury after the upper half of a clamshell cockpit door separated from the aircraft at 6,000 feet. The pilot believed his hand contacted the propeller and made an emergency landing.
Incident Summary
After leveling the airplane at 6,000 feet mean sea level, the pilot observed that the upper half of the clamshell cockpit door had become ajar, and the door unsafe light illuminated. The pilot attempted to secure the door, but it separated from the aircraft during the attempt.
Injuries and Response
During the occurrence, the pilot's left hand was seriously injured. The pilot was not certain of how the injury occurred, but believed that his left hand had contacted the left engine propeller blades. He wrapped his hand in a flight jacket and made an emergency landing, where he received medical attention.
Door Recovery
Attempts to recover the upper half of the clamshell door for further examination were unsuccessful.