Accident Details
Date
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
NTSB Number
ERA17CA012
Location
Knoxville, TN
Event ID
20161012X54411
Coordinates
35.957221, -83.800834
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
2
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
2
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
Registration
N2504Z
Make
BELLANCA
Serial Number
329-77
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Registered Owner (Historical)
Name
SALE REPORTED
Address
1990 VAUGHN RD NW STE 350
Status
Deregistered
City
KENNESAW
State / Zip Code
GA 30144-7827
Country
United States
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