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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Powerlines While Flying Low Over River Canyon (N91184)

Smiths Ferry, ID, US

On May 10, 1986, a Cessna 182P (registration N91184) was involved in an aviation accident near Smiths Ferry, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance while flying at low altitude in a canyon environment, resulting in collision with powerlines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft was observed flying at low altitude with wings dipping before colliding with powerlines spanning a river canyon approximately one mile into the flight path.

What happened

The pilot was returning to home base after completing a business flight during which he delivered parts to company personnel. While navigating the area, the aircraft was observed flying down the north fork of the river at a low altitude. During this phase of the flight, the wings were dipping, indicating a lack of stable control or awareness of the terrain. Approximately one mile after entering the canyon, the aircraft collided with powerlines that were spanning the river at an altitude of 70 feet above ground level.

The investigation

The available source material does not provide specific details regarding mechanical examination or post-accident inspection findings beyond the observed flight behavior and point of impact.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance while flying at low altitude in a canyon environment, resulting in collision with powerlines.
Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 May 1986 Cessna 182P accident near Smiths Ferry, ID?

An aircraft was observed flying at low altitude with wings dipping before colliding with powerlines spanning a river canyon approximately one mile into the flight path.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 May 1986 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N91184, at Smiths Ferry, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance while flying at low altitude in a canyon environment, resulting in collision with powerlines.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33704. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.