Event FTW95LA100

Factual narrative

On January 24, 1995, at 0100 central standard time, a passenger in a Cessna A152, N4892A, was fatally injured during ground operations near Houston, Texas. The private pilot was not injured. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The airplane sustained minor damage. According to the Pilot/Operator Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2, the pilot performed a "normal" preflight of the aircraft. "The pilot and passenger got into the plane, and the pilot started the engine." As he attempted to taxi, he realized that the nose wheel chocks were still in place. The pilot stated that the passenger "volunteered" to remove the chocks. He further stated that he "reminded the passenger to stay clear of the propeller." The passenger then exited the right door and proceeded around the rear of the aircraft. According to the pilot, she kneeled down to remove the chocks. "Then she stood up and turned towards the propeller." Subsequently, the passenger was struck in the head by the propeller. AS THE PILOT PREPARED TO TAXI THE AIRCRAFT, HE REALIZED THAT THE NOSE WHEEL WAS CHOCKED. THE PASSENGER EXITED THE AIRCRAFT TO REMOVE THE CHOCKS WHILE THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO RUN. SUBSEQUENTLY, THE PASSENGER WAS STRUCK BY THE PROPELLER. THE PILOT PERFORMED A 'NORMAL PREFLIGHT' BUT FAILED TO REMOVE THE CHOCKS. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database (Pre-2008 Archive) Retrieved: 2026-02-12