Pilot Debrief

AERONCA 7AC near Apple Valley, CA — 2014-08-08

Final reportWPR14CA332
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Date
2014-08-08
Location
Apple Valley, CA, USA
Airport
APV
Aircraft
AERONCA 7AC
Registration
N12DF
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to adequately secure the airplane while hand-starting the engine.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported, prior to starting the engine in preparation for flight, he verified the throttle position and chocked the right main landing gear by using his foot. After the pilot started the engine via hand turning the propeller, the engine immediately went to a high RPM. The pilot attempted to hang onto the airplane in order to regain control and decrease the throttle, however, he was unsuccessful. The unoccupied airplane then struck a parked helicopter and a fuel station kiosk before coming to a stop. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no preimpact malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation..

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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