Incident Overview
A single-engine airplane was blown over by the jet blast of a departing twin-turbine powered airliner while taxiing. The incident occurred after the single-engine airplane received instructions from the ATC ground controller to taxi to a parking area via a taxiway that crossed behind the waiting airliner. Simultaneously, the scheduled airliner was issued a takeoff clearance.
Sequence of Events
As the airliner powered up to enter the active runway for departure, the jet blast generated by its engines rolled the single-engine airplane over to an inverted position. The private pilot and passenger were able to exit the airplane unassisted. The airliner, unaware of what had occurred, departed the airport.
Damage
The single-engine airplane's right wing sustained structural damage as a result of the overturn.
Regulatory References
According to the Aeronautical Information Manual, chapter 7, paragraph 7-3-8 a, "...the flight disciplines necessary to ensure vortex avoidance during VFR operations must be exercised by the pilot." Additionally, FAA order 7110.65R states that ground controllers are to "Use caution when taxiing smaller aircraft/helicopters in the vicinity of larger aircraft."