Beechcraft B76, VH-HZG, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, on 15 December 1989

Circumstances:

The aircraft was about to be flown to Maitland as part of a multi-stage charter flight. After boarding, the pilot attempted to start the left engine, but the starter was apparently not engaging the ring gear. He started the right engine and again unsuccessfully tried to start the left engine. The pilot said that he then left the aircraft, with the right engine running, and attempted to move the left propeller to enable the starter to engage. As he turned the propeller the engine fired and commenced to run, the propeller grazing his right hand. The aircraft started to move forward, although the parking brake was reported to have been on. The pilot said he tried to board the aircraft but was unable to prevent it continuing ahead about six metres into a wooden fence. Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing, left propeller, and nose cone. The three passengers on board were not injured. The front seat passenger had no aviation knowledge and is not believed to have contributed in any way to the accident. The pilot said he subsequently found the left engine magneto switches had been on when he moved the propeller.

Significant Factors:

The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident:

1. An apparent malfunction of left engine starting system.
2. The pilot left the aircraft unattended while one was engine running.
3. The pilot exercised poor judgement during his attempt to start the other engine.