On April 22, 1984, a Cessna 172N (registration N5454J) operated by Airmaster Aviation Co. was involved in an aviation accident near Mullin, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from an obstruction while flying at low altitude. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Witnesses observed an aircraft flying very low parallel to Highway 84 before its left wing struck a power line, causing it to roll and crash nearly inverted.
What happened
The accident occurred when the aircraft was observed by witnesses flying at a very low altitude. The flight path paralleled Highway 84, which runs alongside a set of railroad tracks. Between the railroad tracks and the highway lies a power line.
Witnesses reported that the left wing of the aircraft contacted the power line. This contact caused the aircraft to roll to the left, resulting in a collision with the ground. The aircraft came to rest nearly inverted.
The investigation
Post-acc examination of the wreckage revealed significant damage consistent with the witness account. Investigators found a power cable wrapped around the propeller hub, confirming that the wing had struck the overhead utility line before impact.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from an obstruction while flying at low altitude.
What happened in the 22 Apr 1984 Cessna 172N accident near Mullin, TX?
Witnesses observed an aircraft flying very low parallel to Highway 84 before its left wing struck a power line, causing it to roll and crash nearly inverted.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Apr 1984 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N5454J, operated by Airmaster Aviation Co., at Mullin, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from an obstruction while flying at low altitude.
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