P&M Aviation Ltd QUIKR N428PM accident near Gulf Shores, Alabama

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control during engine startup, which resulted in a collision with a parked airplane. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow engine startup procedures and a sudden surge of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot attempted to start the weight-shift-aircraft's engine in an area surrounded by hangars. After about eight attempts to start the engine, it finally engaged and immediately advanced to takeoff power. The aircraft then collided with a parked airplane about 150 ft from its original starting position, spun right, impacted a hangar door, and came to rest. Postaccident examination of the throttle system revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Although two throttle cable snag hazards were identified that could have resulted in a stuck throttle, it could not be determined if either possible hazard caused the throttle to become stuck in the open position. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), the aircraft should have been pointing away from people, vehicles, or buildings during startup. The POH also stated that, if the engine does not start after five or six attempts, the pilot should switch the ignition off and investigate the cause of the problem.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14LA257 for the full record.