Primary finding
Probable cause
The failure of the pilot-in-command to use the checklist and to set the parking brakes prior to engine start.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he was experiencing difficulty in starting the engine. He then placed the throttle in the full open position. During the next attempted start the engine started and the airplane accelerated forward into a hangar wall. He did not use the brakes.
Source record
Factual narrative
On November 19, 1995, about 1500 eastern standard time, N18201, a Cessna 150L, operated by Micro Aviation collided with a building at Lantana Airport, Lantana, Florida, while initiating a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private pilot reported no injuries. The flight was originating at the time. The pilot stated that he was experiencing difficulty in starting the engine. He then placed the throttle in the full open position. During the next attempted start the engine started and the airplane accelerated forward into a hangar wall. The pilot stated that the brakes were not used. -