Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a jet blast fence during taxi.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while taxiing to the run-up area, he noticed that it was more congested than usual. While passing to the left of a muti-engine aircraft, the pilot focused his attention more than usual on right wing clearance and did not adequately monitor the left wingtip. Upon recognizing the inadequate clearance of the left wing tip, the pilot applied both brakes. Subsequently, the left wing struck a jet blast fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.