Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to see and avoid power lines during a climb.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was flying his powered parachute at various low altitudes, and that, during a climb along a ridgeline, it struck high-voltage transmission power lines less than 100 feet above ground level. The powered parachute descended to the ground and came to rest inverted, substantially damaging its structural tubing. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the powered parachute that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that he was flying his powered parachute at various low altitudes, and during a climb along a ridgeline, struck high voltage transmission power lines that were less than 100 feet above ground level. The aircraft descended to the ground and came to rest inverted, substantially damaging its structural tubing. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operations.