On June 25, 2005, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N8321W) operated by Richard Martin was involved in an aviation accident near Allegan, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate aircraft control by the Piper PA-28-180 pilot while the airplane was stopped. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A Piper PA-28-180 collided with a stationary Martin Sonex near a taxiway while both airplanes awaited takeoff clearance. The Piper pilot stated he became distracted while securing the cabin door.
Incident Overview
A Piper PA-28-180 and a Martin Sonex were involved in a ground collision near a taxiway. Both aircraft were holding in position awaiting takeoff clearances. The Piper rolled forward and struck the left horizontal stabilizer and elevator of the Sonex with its propeller.
Pilot Account
The pilot of the Piper reported that he was holding the brakes while in position but became distracted when he leaned across his right-seat passenger to secure the entry door. He stated that the airplane then rolled forward, contacting the left horizontal stabilizer and elevator of the Martin Sonex. The pilot further noted that they had been taxiing with the door open due to extreme heat and lack of cabin air circulation.
What happened in the 25 Jun 2005 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Allegan, MI?
A Piper PA-28-180 collided with a stationary Martin Sonex near a taxiway while both airplanes awaited takeoff clearance. The Piper pilot stated he became distracted while securing the cabin door.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Jun 2005 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N8321W, operated by Richard Martin, at Allegan, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The inadequate aircraft control by the Piper PA-28-180 pilot while the airplane was stopped.
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