What happened
During a flight instruction session focused on teaching emergency landing procedures, the certified flight instructor (CFI) initiated a go-around maneuver in close proximity to the ground. The aircraft struck overhead power lines while attempting to climb away from the terrain. Despite the impact, the pilot maintained control and kept the airplane airborne.
The CFI continued the flight back to the home airport without further incident. Upon arrival, an inspection revealed substantial damage to several external components. The windshield was compromised, as were both landing gear fairings. Additionally, the right aileron and both the horizontal and vertical stabilizers sustained damage from the collision.
The investigation
Post-landing examinations confirmed that the primary cause of the structural damage was the contact with power lines during the go-around phase. The aircraft remained airworthy enough to complete the return flight, indicating that critical flight controls were not rendered inoperable by the strike.
Findings
The incident highlights the risks associated with low-level maneuvers near obstacles such as utility infrastructure. Substantial damage was recorded on multiple airframe components, though no injuries were reported and the aircraft did not crash.