On August 2, 1997, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N23831) was involved in an aviation accident near Manassas, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the clearance of her right wing to a parked fuel truck. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot misjudged wingtip clearance during taxi, striking a parked fuel truck and causing minor injuries to a person refueling another aircraft. The right wing was damaged.
Incident Overview
During taxi, a pilot misjudged the clearance of her right wingtip relative to a parked fuel truck located ahead and to the right. The right wing tip struck the fuel truck, causing the airplane to pivot into the truck.
Occupant and Injury Details
The pilot was not injured. A person who was refueling an airplane on the opposite side of the fuel truck sustained minor injuries while attempting to escape the scene.
Aircraft Damage
The right wing was bent rearward as a result of the collision.
Cause
The pilot misjudged the wingtip clearance to the parked fuel truck.
Probable cause
The pilot misjudged the clearance of her right wing to a parked fuel truck.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Aug 1997 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Manassas, VA?
A pilot misjudged wingtip clearance during taxi, striking a parked fuel truck and causing minor injuries to a person refueling another aircraft. The right wing was damaged.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Aug 1997 Piper PA-38-112 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Aug 1997 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N23831, at Manassas, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot misjudged the clearance of her right wing to a parked fuel truck.
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