Cessna 172RG Cutlass — Other Documents

This document is a safety report from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) detailing a ground handling accident involving a Cessna 172RG, registered as VH-MKG, at Parafield Airport, South Australia, on September 11, 2016. The report investigates the circumstances surrounding the accident, which resulted in the fatal injury of the pilot. It highlights the improper starting procedures used by the pilot, specifically the hand swinging of the propeller without adequate safety measures in place. The report aims to provide insights into the risks associated with such procedures and emphasizes the importance of following established safety protocols. It serves as a critical resource for pilots and aviation safety professionals to understand the implications of ground handling accidents and the necessary precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.

• The Cessna 172RG, VH-MKG, was involved in a fatal ground handling accident on September 11, 2016.
• The pilot attempted to hand start the engine due to a known battery issue, which is not recommended.
• The aircraft was not adequately secured during the hand start, leading to it taxiing uncontrolled.
• The investigation found that the park brake was inoperative at the time of the accident.
• Unrestrained animals in the cockpit can increase the risk of accidents during aircraft operations.