On November 25, 1984, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (registration N2047H) was involved in an aviation accident near Wixom, MI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft collided with power lines during final approach. The passenger reported low sun and haze limiting visibility, and a flock of birds prompted an evasive maneuver. Toxicological testing found a blood alcohol level of 0.109% in the pilot.
Incident Details
An aircraft collided with power lines while on final approach for landing. The aircraft was executing a turn onto final approach when a large flock of birds flew in front of the plane. The pilot dove the aircraft in an attempt to avoid the birds. According to a passenger, this maneuver caused the aircraft to be low on the final approach.
Passenger Account
The passenger reported that the sun was very low on the horizon and that looking toward the sun and haze resulted in limited visibility. Neither the passenger nor the pilot saw the power lines until just prior to impact.
Toxicology
A toxicological examination of the pilot's blood revealed a blood alcohol level of 0.109%.