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NTSB Report
July 3, 2009 · Champion 7AC · N1397E
Westminster, MD
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 3, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Westminster, MD
Aircraft
Champion 7AC
Tail Number
N1397E
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA09CA386
The pilot stated that he attempted to start the engine by "hand-propping." The engine started briefly and then stopped. The pilot added that he then primed the engine but "forgot the throttle in the full open position." He hand-propped the engine again, and it started. The airplane began to accelerate forward and became airborne. The airplane flew down a ravine and collided into trees. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if the airplane had been tied down during the engine start.
NTSB Probable Cause
Aircraft-Aircraft handling/service-Parking/securing-Tie-down/mooring-Not specified - F
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that he attempted to start the engine by "hand-propping." The engine started briefly and then stopped. The pilot added that he then primed the engine but "forgot the throttle in the full open position." He hand-propped the engine again, and it started. The airplane began to accelerate forward and became airborne. The airplane flew down a ravine and collided into trees. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if the airplane had been tied down during the engine start.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time11:25 EDT
Nearest AirportClearview Airpark (0nm)
Runway32
Runway Length1840 ft
Runway Width30 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftChampion 7AC
Tail NumberN1397E
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsCont Motor · A&C65 SERIES · Reciprocating · 65
Seats3
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 72 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind320° @ 3 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point52
Altimeter29.84 inHg
Observation Time19:10
Weather SourceWFAC