Probable cause
The pilot's failure to reduce engine power following a high-powered engine start.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, he proceeded through the pre-engine start checklist and set the parking brake. After several failed attempts to start the engine, he increased the power lever setting before another start attempt. The engine subsequently started and the airplane abruptly lurched forward toward another airplane parked 150 feet directly ahead. The pilot immediately applied right rudder, which turned his airplane to the right; however, the right wing struck the parked airplane, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot exited the airplane uneventfully after it skidded to a stop. A witness reported hearing the airplane's engine start and described that it sounded as if the airplane was ready to take off. A photograph revealed tire skid marks leading to and beyond the parked airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10CA445 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 26, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Tampa, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Tampa Executive Airport (VDF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Columbia Aircraft Mfg LC42-550FG
- N-number
- N1321C
- 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.