What happened
On 12 May 2006, a Piper PA-28-181 Cherokee Archer II, registration G-BPTE, was involved in a ground collision at Blackbushe Airport, Camber andley. Following refueling at the airfield's fuel installation, the pilot started the engine and requested necessary weather and aerodrome information.
To depart the fuel pumps, the pilot increased engine power and attempted a left-hand turn to move away from the installation. However, the aircraft failed to clear nearby obstacles, and the starboard wingtip struck a parked fire tender. This initial impact caused damage to the aircraft's front wing, bonnet, and bumper.
As the aircraft continued its movement, the propeller struck a second fire tender that was parked parallel to the first. During this second impact, the propeller became wedged between the bumper and chassis of the vehicle, causing the engine to stop abruptly. The pilot and the single passenger were able to exit the aircraft through the right-hand door without injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the circumstances of the taxiing maneuver. The inspection of G-BPTE found no evidence of pre-existing faults within the braking or steering systems that would have prevented the pilot from controlling the aircraft.
The investigation also noted that the aircraft's engine required removal for a detailed inspection to assess the effects of the sudden stoppage caused by the propeller becoming trapped. Additionally, the airfield's Rescue and Fire Fighting Service (RFFS) was temporarily unable to provide full cover because the crew was occupied with clearing the wreckage, and the two available spare tenders were uncrewed due to maintenance schedules.