On November 22, 1987, a Grumman AA-5A (registration N7109L) was involved in an aviation accident near Thomson, GA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane struck high-tension power lines at about 100 feet AGL while maneuvering near a residence. A wire fell, damaging a car and igniting a field. The aircraft returned to its departure airport and landed without further incident, but sustained structural damage.
Incident Overview
During a maneuvering flight at approximately 100 feet above ground level, an airplane collided with high-tension power lines. The event occurred roughly 0.2 miles from the residence of the pilot's girlfriend.
Impact and Immediate Consequences
The collision caused one of the power wires to fall to the ground. The falling wire damaged an automobile and set a nearby field on fire.
Return and Landing
Despite the damage, the airplane continued flying and returned to the local airport from which it had departed earlier. The pilot executed a landing without further incident.
Aircraft Damage
Upon post-flight inspection, the airplane was found to have sustained structural damage to its vertical stabilizer and one of its wings.