Casualties unknown

Pilot Switches to Dirt Strip After Complaint, Strikes Utility Wires During Crosswind Landing (N8233G)

Wadley, GA, US

On March 11, 1983, a Cessna A188B (registration N8233G) operated by Smith Pierre J was involved in an aviation accident near Wadley, GA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

While landing on a dirt road with a left crosswind of 16 gusting 20 knots, an aircraft drifted right; the right wing contacted utility wires, preventing a turn, and then struck an insulator mount, causing a crash.

Incident Overview

A pilot had been using a paved road as a landing strip until a complaint prompted a change. He then switched to a north-south oriented dirt road that had trees on the west side and utility wires and poles on the right side.

Landing and Drift

While attempting to land with a left crosswind at approximately 16 knots gusting to 20 knots, the aircraft drifted to the right. The right wing subsequently slipped between the utility wires.

Maneuver and Wire Strike

The pilot attempted to steer away from the utility line, but these efforts resulted in the right wing contacting the top wire. This contact prevented the aircraft from turning left. Immediately afterward, the right wing struck an insulator mount, leading to the crash.

Additional Context

The pilot was performing his 27th landing of the day at the time of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42341. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.