Primary finding
Probable cause
The improper procedures used by ground personnel during banner tow operations.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was attempting a banner pick-up. The target banner became entangled with another banner on the surface. The weight and drag of the two banners together exceeded the airplane's available power. The aircraft stalled and impacted the water next to the pick-up point.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 26, 1994, at about 1428 eastern standard time, a Cessna 150L, N16233 was substantially damaged following a collision with water during a banner tow operation near N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The commercial pilot received minor injuries in the accident. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 by Aero Signs, Incorporated of N. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time, and no flight plan had been filed for the local flight. According to witnesses, the pilot was attempting a banner pick-up. During the banner pick-up, the banner became entangled with another banner on the surface. The weight and drag created by both banners resulted in an inability to maintain altitude. The aircraft stalled, and impacted the water. -