No fatalities

Taxiing Accident Results in Wing Strike with Light Pole

Perry, GA, United States

On July 30, 2010, a CESSNA 172N operated by AVIATION FLIGHT ACADEMY was involved in an aviation accident near Perry, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a pole while taxiing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During taxi to a tie-down area, an airplane's left wing struck a wooden light pole, causing substantial damage to the leading edge and spar. The pole was located 7 feet from the paved parking area and 31 feet from the parking tee base.

Incident Overview

The pilot of an airplane reported that after landing, he was taxiing to a tie-down area. While maneuvering the airplane to the right to position it within the tie-down area, the left wing struck a wooden light pole. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the left wing's leading edge and spar.

Location Details

According to airport personnel, the light pole was situated approximately 7 feet from the paved portion of the parking area and approximately 31 feet from the base of the parking tee.

Damage Assessment

The collision caused substantial damage to the left wing's leading edge and spar.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that he had just landed and was taxiing when he turned the airplane to the right to fit into the tie-down area, leading to the wing striking the light pole.

Contributing factors

Awareness of conditionPilot

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jul 2010 CESSNA 172N accident near Perry, GA?

During taxi to a tie-down area, an airplane's left wing struck a wooden light pole, causing substantial damage to the leading edge and spar. The pole was located 7 feet from the paved parking area and 31 feet from the parking tee base.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jul 2010 CESSNA 172N accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jul 2010 involved a CESSNA 172N, operated by AVIATION FLIGHT ACADEMY, at Perry, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a pole while taxiing.