Accident Overview
On 15 August 2006 at 0850 UTC, a de Havilland DH82A Tiger Moth (registration G-EMSY) collided with a parked Piper Warrior (G-SLYN) while taxiing at Old Sarum Aerodrome, Wiltshire. The pilot, the sole occupant, was uninjured. The Tiger Moth sustained minor damage to the underside of its lower left wing and a small tear in the fabric, while the Piper Warrior suffered damage to its fin and elevator.
History of the Flight
The pilot of G-EMSY was taxiing out on the grass toward the runway. He was aware of a row of aircraft parked on his right side and that parking slots on his left were empty. As he approached the edge of the runway, he suddenly noticed the Piper Warrior parked on his left. With no brakes on the Tiger Moth, he immediately attempted to turn right and switched off the magnetos, but the lower left wing of his aircraft struck the tail of the parked aircraft.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the accident, visibility was good, the surface wind was light, and the grass was damp.
Pilot Information
The pilot, aged 72, held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had approximately 20,000 total flying hours, of which only 30 were on type. His recent experience included 8 hours in the last 90 days and 4 hours in the last 28 days.
Damage
Damage to G-EMSY was limited to the underside of the lower left wing and a small fabric tear. G-SLYN sustained damage to its fin and elevator. No injuries were reported.
Probable Cause
The pilot acknowledged that the collision resulted from his poor lookout.