Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate visual lookout while taxing, which resulted in the airplane striking a light pole.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the flight his seat had lowered and resulted in reduced forward visibility. After landing the pilot taxied back to the ramp and attempted to locate the designated parking spot for the airplane. While attempting to locate the parking spot, airplane’s left wing struck a light pole, which substantially damaged it. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.