What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1989-07-21 involved a Cessna 177, registration N30039, operated by Rene G. Munsey, at Hesperia, CA.

Aircraft Strikes Power Line After Takeoff; Two Pilots Reportedly Struggled Over Controls (N30039)

On July 21, 1989, a Cessna 177 (registration N30039) operated by Rene G. Munsey was involved in an aviation accident near Hesperia, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INFLIGHT COLLISION WITH A POWER LINE WHILE MANEUVERING AT LOW ALTITUDE SHORTLY AFTER DEPARTURE ON A DARK NIGHT OVER AN AREA WITH FEW GROUND REFERENCE LIGHTS. THE REASONS FOR THE AIRCRAFT'S FLIGHT PATH AND ALTITUDE PROFILE ARE UNDETERMINED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

After takeoff, the aircraft flew a curving right-hand path at low altitude, struck a 32-ft power line, and was consumed by post-crash fire. No pre-impact mechanical failure was found. Automotive fuel of unknown origin was likely used. A child passenger reported the two pilots were fighting over controls.

Accident Sequence

Witnesses reported that after takeoff, the aircraft flew a curving right-hand flight path at low altitude, heading back toward the approach end of the departure runway. At a point consistent with a modified and extended right base leg for that runway, the aircraft struck a high-tension power line at an altitude of 32 feet above ground level (AGL). At the moment of wire contact, the aircraft was flying parallel to the power line.

Wreckage and Fire

A post-crash fire completely consumed the aircraft. An extensive examination of the surviving wreckage components revealed no evidence of a pre-impact mechanical malfunction or failure.

Fuel and Modifications

Automotive fuel of unknown origin or quality was probably being used in the aircraft without an approved Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).

Pilot Actions

According to a second-hand account from the surviving child passenger, the two pilots began 'fighting over the controls' after takeoff. One pilot reportedly told the other that 'he turned the wrong way.'

Environmental Conditions

The accident occurred on a dark night over an area with no ground reference lights.

1989-07-21: Cessna 177 (N30039) — Rene G. Munsey — Hesperia, CA