Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a fire hydrant while taxiing to the runway.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The certificated flight instructor (CFI) reported that he was taxiing the airplane to the active runway. As he came around a hangar he noted that the sun was extremely bright, as it was just on the horizon. The CFI then taxied the airplane into a fire hydrant, resulting in damage to the right horizontal stabilizer. The CFI reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
In a written statement, the certificated flight instructor (CFI) reported that he was taxiing the airplane to the active runway. As he came around a hangar, he noted the sun was extremely bright, as it was cresting on the horizon. The CFI taxied the airplane into a fire hydrant; the right horizontal stabilizer was damaged as a result of the impact. The CFI reported that there were no pre impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.