What happened
On 18 March 1999, a Piper PA-18-150, registration G-WLAC, was involved in an incident at White Waltham Airfield during a private flight. While preparing to depart, the aircraft was parked near another aircraft. To ensure safe clearance from the adjacent plane, the pilot requested assistance from ground crew members.
During the maneuvering process, the aircraft proved difficult to turn to the right. In an attempt to facilitate the turn, the pilot applied power while simultaneously using the right brake. This application of power caused the tail of the aircraft to lift, resulting in the propeller making contact with the ground. The impact caused damage to the propeller and potentially subjected the engine to shock loading.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanics of the taxi maneuver and the state of the aircraft's braking system. The pilot, an experienced instructor, reported that the aircraft was resistant to moving in the intended direction.
Investigators examined the braking configuration of the Piper PA-18-150. It was determined that the aircraft's design allows for the left and right wheel parking brakes to be released independently. The pilot noted that after releasing the parking brake prior to taxiing, he believed he had failed to confirm that the right brake had actually been disengaged.