What happened
On August 31, 2014, a Neiva 56-C, registration PP-GVN, was prepared for a ferry flight from Maringá Airport (SBMG) to Itápolis (SDIO). The aircraft, operated by Aeroclube de Itápolis, was carrying a pilot and one passenger. Because the aircraft is not equipped with a battery, it lacks an electric starter and requires a manual propeller swing to begin the engine cycle.
During the startup procedure, an experienced flight instructor from the operator, who was not part of the flight crew but was assisting with the manual start, lost his balance. As the propeller rotated, it struck the individual's left thigh, causing a superficial 10 cm laceration. The individual received medical treatment at a local hospital and was subsequently discharged.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of balance. The investigation noted that the apron surface at the airport consisted of cobblestones, which may have contributed to the individual tripping. The instructor reported that he had performed this procedure many times without incident but believed his foot caught on an irregularity in the ground.
Furthermore, the investigation reviewed the aircraft's operating manual. It was noted that while the manual includes an illustration depicting a qualified person positioned in front of the aircraft to swing the propeller, it lacks a detailed, step-by-step description of the specific procedure for manual starting.