What happened
Prior to starting the engine, the pilot turned off the fuel selector and failed to return it to the on position during taxi for takeoff. This resulted in a total loss of engine power. Because the aircraft was not equipped with a starter, the pilot attempted to restart the engine using the hand-prop method.
During this process, the aircraft was not securely tied down and the throttle was not set to idle. Upon successful ignition, the engine revved up unexpectedly. The pilot attempted to restrain the moving aircraft by holding onto it, which resulted in one injury to the pilot. Following the restart, the unoccupied aircraft became airborne and climbed to approximately 200 feet above the ground. The aircraft then entered a right bank and descended into a cornfield adjacent to the airport.
Findings
- The fuel selector was left in the off position during taxi.
- The aircraft was not properly secured to the ground during the hand-prop procedure.
- The throttle was not set to idle during the engine restart attempt.