TRA wrote:
Is there an FAR or other document (Advisory Circular etc.)
that addresses whether a licensed pilot must be at the
controls ofthe aircraft being started when it is hand
propped? I know the FAA may hit the pilot with careless and
reckless if it gets away, but is it legal to tie the tail
down and start solo, particularly when getting gas at a new
airport? There just aren't that many lineboys or other
pilots who are familiar with hand propping,

There is no FAA regulation requiring it, but a surprising number of
local laws require that a licensed pilot be at the controls. There was
a pilot at Boeing Field in Seattle who got ticketed for it a couple
years ago. Also, any airport can have its own rules regarding the
matter, just as they can have rules prohibiting the starting of engines
in hangars, minimum insurance requirements, etc.