Incident Overview
During an agricultural flight, the pilot was conducting a second swath run over a corn field. The aircraft maneuvered to cross under power lines bordering the edge of the field. According to the pilot, he misjudged the distance required to clear the power lines. The vertical stabilizer and rudder struck the lines and were torn from the aircraft.
Subsequent Maneuver and Impact
Following the impact with the power lines, the pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft into a field that lay ahead. However, the aircraft began rotating to the right and descending. It subsequently struck the ground, with the right wing making first contact. The aircraft sustained extensive damage as a result of the collision.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The source does not provide specific details about the aircraft type, registration, operator, date, or location of the incident. The flight was described as a swath run, typically associated with agricultural operations such as crop spraying or seeding. The pilot was the sole occupant mentioned, with no information given about injuries or fatalities.
Sequence of Events
- The pilot initiated the second swath run over a corn field.
- The aircraft approached power lines bordering the edge of the field.
- The pilot attempted to cross under the lines but misjudged the clearance distance.
- The vertical stabilizer and rudder struck the power lines and were torn away.
- The pilot tried to guide the aircraft toward a field ahead.
- The aircraft entered a right rotation and descent.
- The aircraft hit the ground right wing first, resulting in extensive damage.
The investigation source provides this factual account without additional analysis or inferred causes.