Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The powered parachute collided with power lines in a snow-covered, rural field; the pilot sustained major burn injuries and did not recall the impact or events leading up to the accident. Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of flight control failure or malfunction, and fuel was present in the fuel tanks. It is likely that the pilot failed to maintain clearance from the power lines while operating at low altitude.
Source record
Factual narrative
On January 19, 2018, about 1500 mountain standard time, a Buckeye Industries Dream Machine 582 powered parachute, N92048, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Chester, Montana. The aircraft was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. At 1505, the pilot called 911 to report that he had been involved in an accident. The powered parachute came to rest entangled in power lines in a rural, snow-covered field with the nosewheel hanging from a wire. The wreckage was consistent with the aircraft flying in a southerly direction before impact. The pilot sustained major burns and was transported to the hospital, where he stayed for numerous months. The pilot did not remember anything about the impact or events leading up to the accident. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and reported that the flight controls appeared to be continuous with no evidence of any anomalies. The engine appeared to be in normal condition with oil present; there was fuel present in the fuel tank.