PIPER PA-28R-200 near San Diego, CA — 2012-01-30

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to turn the magneto switch to the off position before moving the propeller to start the engine by hand.

NTSB narrative

The passenger reported that he and the pilot were both seated in the airplane when the pilot made three unsuccessful attempts to start the engine. The pilot told the passenger to “get out, I need to jump it.” The passenger got out of the airplane and was walking away when he heard a noise. When he looked back toward the front of the airplane, he saw the pilot lying on the ground below the propeller. The airplane’s engine was not running. Postaccident examination revealed that the magneto switch was in the both position. It is likely that the pilot moved the propeller, and because the magnetos were in a ready-to-start condition, this resulted in a spark plug firing, which caused the propeller to turn rapidly and strike the pilot.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Human factors

First missed decision gate

Pilot should have ensured engine was off before attempting to jump start.

NTSB coding

• AC/prop/rotor contact w person · Standing-engine(s) start-up

Evidence available

• 1 docket document

Docket documents1

• Passenger Statementinterview

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