WPR11CA397

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power transmission lines during the landing approach into the sun.

The pilot was landing on a grass field toward the west just prior to sunset. During the final approach, about 30 feet above ground level, he became aware of power transmission lines directly ahead. The airplane struck the lines and descended to the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage during the accident sequence, and the pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. According to the United States Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department, the altitude and azimuth of the sun at 1940 in the closest town were 5 degrees and 283.4 degrees, respectively. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. He stated that this was the first time he had flown to this location, and that he did not overfly the field or perform a thorough review of the area prior to attempting the landing.

The private pilot was attempting to perform a landing into a grass field just prior to sunset. The landing approach was performed to the west, towards the sun. During the final approach, about 30 feet above ground level, he became aware of power transmission lines directly ahead. The airplane struck the lines and descended to the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage during the accident sequence, and the pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. According to the United States Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department, the altitude and azimuth of the sun at 1940 in the closest town were 5 degrees and 283.4 degrees, respectively. The pilot stated that this was the first time he had landed at this location, but he had both overflown, and walked along the field on multiple occasions prior. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.