Primary finding
Probable cause
The operation of an airplane by a noncertificated pilot and his failure to maintain clearance from power lines during low-level flight.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The noncertificated pilot reported that he was flying the experimental airplane between 50 and 300 feet above ground level. The airplane’s front landing gear hit a power line wire, which resulted in the airplane impacting the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that he did not see the power lines crossing the field and that there was no mechanical malfunction of the airplane prior to the wire strike.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that he was flying the experimental airplane between 50 to 300 feet above ground level. The airplane’s front landing gear hit a power line wire which resulted in the airplane impacting the terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that he did not see the power lines crossing the field, and that there was no mechanical malfunction of the airplane prior to the wire strike.