On November 11, 1988, a Grumman AA5A (registration N9975U) operated by Forehand, Luther W. was involved in an aviation accident near Tampa, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft struck a static wire on power lines and crashed into an orange grove near Lake Thonotosassa, Florida. No preimpact failure was found, and weather was clear with 15 miles visibility.
Incident Overview
Witnesses reported seeing an aircraft flying at low altitude over the area of Lake Thonotosassa shortly before it struck the top static wire of a group of power lines. The impact occurred while the aircraft was on a southerly heading. Following the collision, the aircraft crashed into an orange grove.
Aircraft Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of a preimpact failure or malfunction of the airframe or engine.
Weather Conditions
The weather at the time of the incident was described as good, with clear sky conditions and visibility of 15 miles.
What happened in the 11 Nov 1988 Grumman AA5A accident near Tampa, FL?
An aircraft struck a static wire on power lines and crashed into an orange grove near Lake Thonotosassa, Florida. No preimpact failure was found, and weather was clear with 15 miles visibility.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Nov 1988 involved a Grumman AA5A, registration N9975U, operated by Forehand, Luther W., at Tampa, FL.
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