Incident Summary
The pilot reported that the battery was too low to start the airplane's engine. He asked the fixed base operator (FBO) if they could assist with a jumper pack but was told no one on duty was authorized to help and that he would have to wait a couple of days. Deciding to start the engine by hand propping, he set the parking brake. However, following the engine start, the airplane began to move forward. The pilot attempted to re-enter the airplane to apply the brakes, but the airplane struck a hangar. The left wing sustained substantial damage.
Investigation Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the airplane after the accident and reported that the parking brake functioned normally. The inspector added that the pilot was sure he set the brakes but may not have gotten enough pressure to hold the airplane.
Background
The FAA's Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3A) contains a section titled "Hand Propping" which provides safety guidelines. It states that an engine should not be hand propped unless two people, both familiar with the airplane and hand propping techniques, are available. The person pulling the propeller blades directs all activity and is in charge. The other person, thoroughly familiar with the controls, must be seated in the airplane with the brakes set. As an additional precaution, chocks may be placed in front of the main wheels. If that is not feasible, the airplane's tail may be securely tied. It also emphasizes that a person unfamiliar with the controls should never occupy the pilot's seat when hand propping, and the procedure should never be attempted alone.