On June 24, 1982, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5514W) operated by William Wallace was involved in an aviation accident near Quinlan, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during inspection operations. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft struck a feeder line during power inspection, shearing off the right gear. The pilot maintained control and executed a safe landing in a field with only minor flap damage.
What happened
The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting an inspection of overhead power lines. During this operation, the aircraft collided with a feeder line situated perpendicular to the primary line under examination. The impact caused the electrical line to snap, but the plane continued its trajectory until it contacted the ground. This contact resulted in the shearing off of the right landing gear.
Despite the significant mechanical damage, the aircraft regained lift and became airborne once more. The pilot successfully maintained control and flew the aircraft for approximately one-quarter mile toward a large open field. Upon reaching the field, the pilot elected to perform an emergency landing. During this final touchdown, only the right flap sustained damage.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during inspection operations.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Jun 1982 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Quinlan, TX?
Aircraft struck a feeder line during power inspection, shearing off the right gear. The pilot maintained control and executed a safe landing in a field with only minor flap damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jun 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5514W, operated by William Wallace, at Quinlan, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during inspection operations.
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