Adopted May 29, 1944

File No. 5053-43

REPORT OF THE CIVIL AERONAUTICS BOARD

on the

Investigation of an Aircraft Propeller Accident

Richard Lee Harvey as seriously injured when he as struck by an aircraft propeller the Municipal Airport, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, about 1.35 p.m. on December 11, 1943. The airplane, a Taylorcraft BL-65, NC 26655, owned by Harry C. Phillips, received minor damage.

Harvey, a War Training Service Navy trainee, was assisting Instructor Conrad Hansen and WTS Navy Trainee Orlo Frederic Hall in starting the engine of NC 26655. After priming the engine, Harvey called "contract," which was repeated by Hall. Harvey swing the propeller several times but the engine failed to start. Deciding to prime the engine again, Harvey called "switch off," then immediately swung the propeller, whereupon the engine started and the propeller stuck him on the left leg.

Harvey stated that he thought he heard either Hanson or Hall answer when he called for "switch off." However, both Hansen and Hell stated that Harvey turned the propeller before they had time to answer him or turn the switch to the off position.

The probable cause of this accident was carelessness and lack of experience on the part of Harvey in the technique of starting an engine.

BY THE BOARD

/s/ Fred A. Toombs

Secretary