Background
On Saturday, October 28, 1989, a pilot intended to conduct a VFR navigation flight with a flight instructor. After hangaring the aircraft and performing an external inspection, the pilot prepared to taxi to the fuel pump.
Accident Sequence
The engine started spontaneously and immediately produced high power because the throttle lever was positioned 5 mm from the full-throttle setting. The aircraft began to accelerate. The pilot, described as panicked, took no corrective action. The Cessna C-152 rolled uncontrolled on the taxiway between hangars in a northerly direction. After approximately 50 meters, it collided with a parked Piper Tomahawk (HB-PFO). The impact severed the Piper's rear fuselage behind the cockpit and deflected the Cessna 90 degrees to the left. The Cessna, with its propeller still running, then penetrated the hangar door of AIRLA Flugzeug Service up to its wings. The pilot, uninjured, shut off the ignition and master switch before leaving the aircraft.
Findings
- The pilot held a valid license and was authorized for the intended flight.
- The aircraft was airworthy with valid documentation.
- Post-accident examination revealed the following cockpit settings: ignition off, battery and alternator off, throttle at full minus 5 mm, mixture rich, parking brake not set, fuel valve closed (closed after the event).
- During a demonstration of cockpit procedures, the investigator noted that when starting the engine, the pilot used his left hand to operate the ignition key while holding the checklist and control wheel with his right hand.
- The flight instructor and another witness observed the beginning of the event from in front of the C-office.
Assessment
The C-152 collided with another aircraft after about 50 m of taxi. Training principles for engine start include: foot readiness for braking, right hand on throttle to adjust idle speed and react immediately, and ensuring the parking brake is properly set. The parking brake was not correctly engaged.
Cause
The accident was due to the pilot's lack of reaction after starting the engine. A contributing factor was the improper starting of the engine.