Probable cause
The pilot's failure to monitor the airplane's movement and maintain control of the airplane.
NTSB analysis
After engine start up, the pilot reported that he and his passenger were focused on untangling their headsets. He stated they both were "heads down" for about 8 seconds and failed to notice the airplane moving forward. After rolling forward about 25 feet, the airplane struck an unoccupied airplane which resulted in substantial damage to the firewall and fuselage.
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA066 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 4, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Roxboro, North Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Person County (TDF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 177B
- N-number
- N1102C
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
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.