Summary
On November 07, 2017, a Cessna 172 (N55234) was involved in an incident near Bonners Ferry, ID. All 1 person aboard were uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this incident to be: The pilot’s failure to see and avoid power lines while maneuvering at a low altitude.
The pilot reported that, about 50 ft. above the ground during a "low recon" over a river bar, he did not see power lines crossing the river until they were about 10 ft. in front of the airplane. Subsequently, the airplane's empennage struck the wires; he then, added power and initiated a climb. He returned to the airport and landed without further incident.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
This incident is documented in NTSB report GAA18CA044. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N55234.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s failure to see and avoid power lines while maneuvering at a low altitude.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that, about 50 ft. above the ground during a "low recon" over a river bar, he did not see power lines crossing the river until they were about 10 ft. in front of the airplane. Subsequently, the airplane's empennage struck the wires; he then, added power and initiated a climb. He returned to the airport and landed without further incident.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA044