Primary finding
Probable cause
Clearance not maintained. A factor to the accident was: transmission wire.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while cruising at 200 to 300 feet above ground level and following an interstate highway, he noted a flock of birds in his path. The pilot descended in altitude and the airplane collided with two transmission wires that were approximately 23 feet above ground level.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 9, 1994, at 0830 mountain daylight time, a Mooney M20C, N711LP, collided with transmission lines near Wamsutter, Wyoming. The pilot returned to Rawlins, Wyoming, and landed without further incident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private pilot was not injured. The flight had departed from Rawlins and was en route to Rock Springs, Wyoming. The pilot reported that while cruising at 200 to 300 feet above ground level and following an interstate highway, he noted a flock of birds in his path. The pilot descended in altitude and the airplane collided with two transmission wires that were approximately 23 feet above ground level. -