Accident Sequence
About three minutes after takeoff, the aircraft was observed emerging from a 400-600 ft overcast sky in approximately a 75-degree nose-down, right-wing-low attitude. It impacted a four-strand high-voltage powerline before contacting the ground.
Pilot Information
The pilot had received his instrument rating in January. No records were found indicating that the pilot had ever flown actual or simulated instruments in a PA-24.
Medical History
The pilot had a medical history of dizziness. On March 6, 1984, he was treated for nausea, vomiting, and dizziness and was given three medications. On March 8, 1984, he telephoned the university health center reporting continued dizziness and was prescribed another drug. He again called on March 10, 1984, complaining of dizziness. However, a drug screen revealed no traces of medications able to be tested for.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was over maximum gross weight at the time of the accident.