On June 17, 1989, a Boeing E75 (registration N43YP) operated by Strable, Eugene was involved in an aviation accident near Shelbyville, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT ALLOWED HIS ATTENTION TO BE DEVAITED, MISJUDGED ALTITUDE AND DISTANCE TO THE RUNWAY WHILE ON FINAL APPROACH, AND FAILED TO MAINTAIN CLEARANCE ABOVE THE POWER LINES. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: THE POWER LINES AND PARKED AIRCRAFT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
On final approach to a sod runway at an uncontrolled airport, a pilot focused on conflicting traffic descended too low. The landing gear struck power lines, dragging wires and debris. The aircraft then hit three parked planes, with debris damaging another plane and five vehicles.
Accident Details
The pilot of an aircraft reported that during the final approach to a sod runway at an uncontrolled airport, his attention was diverted by conflicting traffic. He inadvertently allowed the aircraft to descend too low. According to his statement, there were power lines located short of the runway that blended with the background, making them difficult to see.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft continued its approach, the landing gear made contact with the power lines. This caused wires and debris from the utility poles to be dragged along. The accident aircraft subsequently struck three parked aircraft before coming to rest. The wires and debris also damaged another aircraft and five vehicles that were in the vicinity.
Airport Conditions
On the day of the accident, the airport was experiencing congestion due to an antique aircraft fly-in. No other information regarding the airport environment or operational conditions was provided.
What happened in the 17 Jun 1989 Boeing E75 accident near Shelbyville, IN?
On final approach to a sod runway at an uncontrolled airport, a pilot focused on conflicting traffic descended too low. The landing gear struck power lines, dragging wires and debris. The aircraft then hit three parked planes, with debris damaging another plane and five vehicles.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jun 1989 involved a Boeing E75, registration N43YP, operated by Strable, Eugene, at Shelbyville, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT ALLOWED HIS ATTENTION TO BE DEVAITED, MISJUDGED ALTITUDE AND DISTANCE TO THE RUNWAY WHILE ON FINAL APPROACH, AND FAILED TO MAINTAIN CLEARANCE ABOVE THE POWER LINES. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS WERE: THE POWER LINES AND PARKED AIRCRAFT.
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