Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate visual lookout and subsequent failure to maintain clearance from a light pole while taxiing.
NTSB analysis
After landing at an airport, the pilot taxied to the fixed base operator in order to park the airplane. He was advised to park in the first space near the grass, but was unsure of the location of that space. The pilot taxied to the area where he thought he was supposed to park. He then turned the airplane toward his intended parking space and the right wing made contact with a light pole and was substantially damaged. The pilot was uninjured and reported that there were no preexisting mechanical anomalies of the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11CA371 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 19, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- North Adams, Massachusetts
- Nearest airport
- Harriman-And-West Airport (AQW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172M
- N-number
- N12477
- 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.