On September 20, 2002, a Cessna 172P (registration N612CB) operated by Troy Mason Heidel was involved in an aviation accident near Lutz, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to see a wooden post while taxiing, which resulted in damage to the left wing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot failed to notice a wooden porch post while taxiing near an FBO building, resulting in damage to the left wing leading edge and spar.
What happened
The pilot was maneuvering the aircraft from a parking area when the left wingtip made contact with a fixed obstruction. Specifically, the leading edge of the wing struck a wooden post that was part of a porch attached to the FBO building on the pilot's left side.
The investigation
A physical examination of the aircraft revealed significant structural damage. The inspection confirmed that the left leading edge wingtip was damaged and, more critically, the internal wing spar was bent.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to see a wooden post while taxiing, which resulted in damage to the left wing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Sept 2002 Cessna 172P accident near Lutz, FL?
A pilot failed to notice a wooden porch post while taxiing near an FBO building, resulting in damage to the left wing leading edge and spar.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Sept 2002 Cessna 172P accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Sept 2002 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N612CB, operated by Troy Mason Heidel, at Lutz, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to see a wooden post while taxiing, which resulted in damage to the left wing.
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