Casualties unknown

Wing Tip Strikes Sign Post During Taxi at Airport (N65057)

Augusta, ME, US

On September 2, 2001, a Cessna 172P (registration N65057) was involved in an aviation accident near Augusta, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain the proper distance from a sign post during taxi. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During taxi to fuel pumps, the pilot's attention was drawn to an airport employee, resulting in the right wing tip striking a sign post. No injuries reported.

Incident Overview

A pilot returning from a local pleasure flight taxied the airplane to the operator's ramp. The pilot noted that this was only his second flight from that airport. As he taxied toward the fuel pumps to service the airplane, an airport employee signaled to get his attention. With his focus directed at the employee, the leading edge of the right wing tip struck a sign post near the pumps.

Sequence of Events

The pilot had just completed a local pleasure flight and was maneuvering the airplane on the ground. He proceeded toward the fuel pumps, a standard procedure after landing. During this taxi, an airport employee attempted to attract the pilot's attention. The pilot acknowledged the signal and shifted his attention to the employee, momentarily diverting his focus from the path of the aircraft.

Damage

As the airplane approached the fueling area, the leading edge of the right wing tip made contact with a sign post. The impact caused damage to the wing tip. No other objects or persons were involved.

Pilot's Background

The pilot stated that this flight was only his second operation from that airport, indicating limited familiarity with the airport's layout and ground procedures.

Conclusion

The incident occurred when the pilot's attention was diverted by an airport employee during taxi, leading to a collision with a stationary sign post. No further details were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 2001 Cessna 172P accident near Augusta, ME?

During taxi to fuel pumps, the pilot's attention was drawn to an airport employee, resulting in the right wing tip striking a sign post. No injuries reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 2001 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N65057, at Augusta, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain the proper distance from a sign post during taxi.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011010X02061. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.