Mount Holly, NJ, USA
N6319Z
Piper PA-25-180
After loading his equipment bag in the front seat of the airplane, the pilot pressed on each wing lift strut to verify that the brakes were set and then attempted to hand start the engine. He was able to start the engine, however; it "immediately came to full power." He then attempted to reach the cockpit, but was unable. The airplane moved forward, and struck a parked airplane. Both airplanes were substantially damaged. The pilot believed that when he placed his bag in the airplane, it may have "pushed the throttle forward." According to FAA publication FAA-P-8740-20, "No one should attempt to start an aircraft engine without a qualified person at the cockpit controls."
According to the pilot, after loading his equipment bag in the front of the Piper PA-25-180, he pressed on each wing lift strut to verify that the brakes were set and then attempted to hand start the engine. He was able to start the engine, however; it "immediately came to full power." He then attempted to reach the cockpit, but was unable. The airplane moved forward, and struck a parked airplane. Both airplanes were substantially damaged. The pilot believed that when he placed his bag in the airplane, it may have "pushed the throttle forward." According to FAA publication FAA-P-8740-20, "No one should attempt to start an aircraft engine without a qualified person at the cockpit controls."
The pilot's improper starting procedure, which resulted in an uncontrolled taxi, and collision with a parked airplane.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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