On June 26, 1983, a Cessna C170A (registration N1239D) was involved in an aviation accident near Cajon Pass, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying at 40 feet above ground level in marginal weather struck a power line and crashed. No flight plan or weather briefing was filed. The pilot reported following a highway and encountering reduced visibility.
Accident Overview
According to the investigation source, the pilot was flying approximately 40 feet above ground level (AGL) in marginal weather conditions when the aircraft contacted a power line and crashed. No flight plan was filed, and there is no record that the pilot obtained a weather briefing.
Pilot's Statement
The pilot stated that he was following a highway up a pass when he encountered marginal visibility. He reported that he could not turn around due to a lack of knowledge of the terrain. Reflecting on the event, the pilot said he should have made a 180-degree turn before entering the reduced visibility area. When he saw the power lines, he added full power, but the stall warning sounded. He then put the nose down and attempted to fly between the power lines.
Witness Account
A witness reported seeing the aircraft at about 40 feet AGL and observed it collide with power lines before coming down on the side of the freeway.