Incident Overview
During an en route flight, the pilot contacted a Flight Service Station (FSS) and was advised that the Redding Airport was below minimums due to fog. Subsequently, the pilot contacted the Benton Unicom, located approximately 7 miles northwest of Redding Municipal Airport, and reported that he could not see the runway lights at the Benton Airport. He stated that he would attempt to locate Enterprise Airport, which was about 5 miles east of Benton.
Low Fuel and Highway Lights
The pilot also informed the Unicom that he was low on fuel. Noting that he could see the lights on Eureka Way (California State Highway 299W), he indicated he would use the highway if necessary.
Collision and Impact
Shortly after, the aircraft collided with two overhead ground lines associated with the Shasta Tracy 230 kV transmission line. The cables were 1/2 inch in diameter and located near Eureka Way, at an altitude of 120 feet above ground level, approximately 1.5 miles from the Benton Airport. Following the collision with the cables, the aircraft impacted on Eureka Way.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of a preimpact or mechanical problem.