Summary
On October 11, 2016, a Bellanca 8KCAB (N2504Z) was involved in an accident near Knoxville, TN. The accident resulted in 2 minor injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: The pilot's intentional low-altitude operation, which resulted in his failure to maintain clearance from unmarked utility wires.
Shortly after departing, and while flying along a river, the airplane struck 2 of 5 unmarked utility wires that spanned across the river. The airplane subsequently impacted the water below resulting in substantial damage to the airframe and minor injuries to the pilot and passenger. When asked how the accident could have been prevented the pilot stated, "Increase altitude minimums by at least double to ensure adequate reaction time to avoid obstacles."
This accident is documented in NTSB report ERA17CA012. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N2504Z.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's intentional low-altitude operation, which resulted in his failure to maintain clearance from unmarked utility wires.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
Shortly after departing, and while flying along a river, the airplane struck 2 of 5 unmarked utility wires that spanned across the river. The airplane subsequently impacted the water below resulting in substantial damage to the airframe and minor injuries to the pilot and passenger. When asked how the accident could have been prevented the pilot stated, "Increase altitude minimums by at least double to ensure adequate reaction time to avoid obstacles."
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA17CA012