Primary finding
Probable cause
failure of the pilot to maintain clearance from the power line.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While spraying a field with chemicals, the airplane struck a power line and subsequently impacted the ground.
Source record
Factual narrative
On May 31, 1996, at 0820 central daylight time, a Grumman G-164B, N6678Q, owned and operated by a private owner, sustained substantial damage after striking a power line while maneuvering near Newport, Arkansas. The instrument rated commercial pilot received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the Title 14 CFR Part 137 flight. The flight originated from a private strip 10 miles south west of Newport, Arkansas. According to the FAA, while spraying a field with chemical, the airplane struck power lines and subsequently impacted the ground. Repeated attempts to obtain NTSB form 6120.1/2 (Pilot/Operator Report) were unsuccessful. -