This February 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Cessna 172. Injuries: None. Location: Tucson, Ariz. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: Following an uneventful landing, the student pilot and flight instructor were cleared to taxi the Cessna to the ramp. They had to taxi past an MD-80 which was holding short of the runway. The student pilot applied aileron control inputs for possible jet blast from the MD-80. The CFI advised the student pilot to stop the airplane due to the MD-80. As the Cessna slowed to a stop, the MD-80 increased engine thrust to taxi onto the runway and the jet blast tipped the Cessna over onto its right wing. The tower controller reported that he began to clear the MD-80 for takeoff as he scanned the active runway to ensure all crossing aircraft were clear. The controller then looked back and saw the Cessna taxiing behind the MD-80. The controller stated that he stopped issuing the takeoff clearance, however the MD-80 had already powered up.
Probable cause: The CFI’s inadequate situational awareness while taxiing that led to an encounter with jet blast.
For more information: NTSB.gov
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From what I have read, the Cessna was following procedures from the Control Tower. Even though the Pilot is ultimately responsible for his plane, why isn’t the Control tower responsible for failing to notice the danger and clearing the MD-80. When I am cleared to taxi from one point to another, I acknowledge, listen to other aircraft, keep a lookout for runway incursions potentials and only challenged if I was to cross a runway when it was not clearly stated to proceed to cross or hold. Passing active Jets, I pay special attention to, listen, but never challenge Control Tower as long I was cleared to proceed.
If I hear a jet ahead of me being cleared, I would immediate contact Control Tower that I was heading into a blast area. I wonder how much time elapse between the MD-80 clearance and the accident. Was the Cessna within the danger area when the clearance was given or did the Cessna enter the danger area after the clearance was given?
Are we suppose to question the Control tower every time they clear us to taxi pass an Jet? Would appreciate more information? Thank You, James Miller, Private Pilot.