Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from a communications cart while taxiing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was taxiing to the ramp after landing when he heard ground controllers instruct another airplane to hold short to allow his airplane to pass. The pilot stated that he moved to the right for more clearance between the other airplane and his. The right wingtip of the airplane struck a remote communications cart that was placed at the edge of the taxiway. The accident airplane suffered substantial damage to the right wing. The outboard 2 to 3 feet of the leading edge of the right wing was crushed rearward causing damage to the wing skin, ribs, and spar. After the accident, the remote communications cart was moved farther from the edge of the taxiway.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA343 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 13, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Greenfield, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Indianapolis Regional Airport (MQJ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20J
- N-number
- N10143
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.