Probable cause
The pilot's improper operation of the airplane controls during engine start, which resulted in a collision with a hangar.
NTSB analysis
The pilot started the airplane without the hand-brake set, and the airplane began to move forward. The pilot stated that he pushed the throttle "in" and at the same time reached for the hand-brake in an attempt to stop the airplane. The throttle input increased engine power, and the airplane rolled forward until it collided with a hanger. The airplane’s wings were substantially damaged. A postaccident examination of the airplane found the throttle in the full forward (full power) position. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane were reported.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13CA139 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 17, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Phillipsburg, Ohio
- Nearest airport
- Phillipsburg Airport (K3I7)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-24-250
- N-number
- N5269P
- 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.