Incident Details
While taxiing under air traffic control instruction, a light single-engine airplane encountered jet blast originating from a larger turbine-powered airplane that was being marshaled by ground personnel. The force of the jet blast caused the airplane's empennage to lift, and subsequently the propeller and left wing struck the ground. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the firewall.
Aircraft Damage
The damage to the firewall was classified as substantial. The propeller and left wing also sustained visible damage from the ground contact. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported the sequence of events, noting that the jet blast was encountered while following ATC instructions on the taxiway. The pilot stated that the airplane was under control and operating normally before the encounter. There were no indications of any preexisting issues with the aircraft systems.
FAA Guidance
The Federal Aviation Administration Aeronautical Information Manual provides guidance on jet blast hazards. It states that during ground operations and takeoff, jet engine blast can cause damage and upsets if encountered at close range. Exhaust velocity versus distance studies at various thrust levels indicate that light aircraft should maintain adequate separation behind large turbojet aircraft. The manual also advises pilots of larger aircraft to consider the effects of their jet blast on other aircraft, vehicles, and maintenance equipment during ground operations.