Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command was operating the airplane at an excessive taxi speed, and did not maintain visual separation with the tied down airplane. Factors contributing to the accident were a light rain and fog condition, and a foggy interior window.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The accident airplane was observed taxiing at a high rate of speed on the parking ramp prior to its collision with the tied down airplane. The witness stated he observed the brakes on the airplane lock up prior to the collision. The pilot stated he was not able to see the parked airplane due to light rain on the windshield, partially fogged interior windows, and parking ramp lighting. The pilot stated the tied down airplane was not in a lighted area. The on-scene investigation revealed the parked airplane was adjacent to a building which had operational ramp lighting at the time of the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
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