On February 21, 1988, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N2359E) operated by Robert J. Agnew was involved in an aviation accident near Gila, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot and his passenger struck an unmarked static line while following a river bed, causing the pilot to lose control and the aircraft to flip upside down and hit the ground inverted.
Incident Details
A pilot and his passenger were on a pleasure flight, following a river bed, when the pilot spotted electrical power lines ahead. He believed he had adequate clearance above the lines but did not see the static line located above the wires. The aircraft struck the unmarked static line, causing the pilot to lose control. Subsequently, the aircraft flipped upside down and struck the ground in an inverted position.
Pilot and Passenger Statements
The pilot stated that it would be beneficial if static lines were marked with orange ball markers to improve visibility. The passenger also emphasized that the wires need to be marked.
What happened in the 21 Feb 1988 Aeronca 7AC accident near Gila, NM?
A pilot and his passenger struck an unmarked static line while following a river bed, causing the pilot to lose control and the aircraft to flip upside down and hit the ground inverted.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Feb 1988 involved an Aeronca 7AC, registration N2359E, operated by Robert J. Agnew, at Gila, NM.
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