While taxiing as a flight of two at the airport in Idaho Falls, Idaho, the pilot of a red Beechcraft D17S stopped his airplane so that he could conduct a run-up of the engine.
The pilot of a blue Beechcraft lost visual contact with the red Beechcraft while changing frequencies on his radio and hit the left aft section of the red Beechcraft, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing.
Both of the pilots reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframes or engines that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable cause: While taxiing as a flight of two, the pilot of the blue Beechcraft became distracted and hit the red Beechcraft, which had stopped.
NTSB Identification: GAA15CA145B
This June 2015 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.
I’ll bet it made a really expensive noise !!!
Rule #1 in formation flight and item #1 in formation briefing is DO NOT HIT LEAD!
The deep dark secret here, not mentioned in the article, is the pilot of the aircraft that destroyed the wing of his lead was both highly experienced and well into his 8th decade of life. Attention and ability to rapidly switch tasks is always a problem. Unfortunately, for those of us who are well into our 7th or 8th decade, mental processes and the ability to “multi process” just ain’t as quick or reliable as it used to be. There is no viagra for the mind. We need to focus and stay on task. The good news here is no one was hurt. The bad news? The accident was predictable and not a bit surprising.
Should have a flip flop radio
“Fly the airplane” when in the air, “TAXI the airplane” while it’s moving on the ground. And always, ALWAYS watch your wingman… if you decide to play fighter pilot and attempt formation ops.
Paul got it right. Nothing requires twiddlng dials during taxi.
What was so urgent about changing frequencies that the brakes could not have been applied to stop and then change the frequencies? Answer: NOTHING
+1 Eyes outside during any time the aircraft is moving. Save radio tuning for the before takeoff check lists.