Amateur-built RV9 N26AJ accident near Stephenville, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to ensure the canopy and the cockpit were properly secured during the hand prop sequence.

NTSB analysis

After a brief stopover, the engine failed to start due to a dead battery, and the pilot elected to hand prop the engine. The non-certificated passenger was instructed to apply the brakes, and the pilot successfully started the engine. However, when the engine started, the canopy inadvertently closed, which caused a headset to fall. The headset impacted the engine throttle control pushing it forward, and the engine power increased. The airplane subsequently moved uncontrolled across the ramp with the passenger onboard and impacted the terminal building. The airplane came to rest upright, and the right wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA399 for the full record.