N4138Z

Substantial
None

Piper PA18S/N: 18-8210

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, October 10, 2019
NTSB Number
GAA20CA008
Location
Big Flats, NY
Event ID
20191010X03615
Coordinates
42.117221, -76.918334
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper flight planning and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from wires during takeoff.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
18-8210
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Model / ICAO
PA18PA18
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
PA-18-150

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
ZWEIFEL DOUGLAS L
Address
PO BOX 202202
City
ANCHORAGE
State / Zip Code
AK 99520-2202
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that, prior to takeoff on an off-airport grass field, he consulted his mentor on best practices to takeoff and avoid obstacles. During the takeoff roll, he realized that the planned flight path was "risky", so he "made a ground track deviation." The left wing struck a guy wire, folded back, and the right wing struck another guy wire.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.

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# GAA20CA008