Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
On January 19, 2018, about 1500 mountain standard time, a Buckeye Industries Dream Machine 582 powered parachute, N92048, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Chester, Montana. The aircraft was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
At 1505, the pilot called 911 to report that he had been involved in an accident. The powered parachute came to rest entangled in power lines in a rural, snow-covered field with the nosewheel hanging from a wire. The wreckage was consistent with the aircraft flying in a southerly direction before impact. The pilot sustained major burns and was transported to the hospital, where he stayed for numerous months.
The pilot did not remember anything about the impact or events leading up to the accident. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and reported that the flight controls appeared to be continuous with no evidence of any anomalies. The engine appeared to be in normal condition with oil present; there was fuel present in the fuel tank.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR18LA076