Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Static Cable Above Power Lines After Low-Altitude Flight Over Agricultural Development (N4129E)

Immokalee, FL, US

On November 3, 1989, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4129E) operated by Smoak Groves, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Immokalee, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALTITUDE AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE VISUAL LOOKOUT TO SEE AND AVOID OBSTRUCTIONS. THE STATIC LINE (OBSTRUCTION) WAS A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot flying low to view agricultural development collided with a static cable above high-tension power lines, causing the aircraft to drop vertically to the ground.

Incident Overview

After takeoff, the pilot turned to a northerly heading and remained at low altitude to view his agricultural development near the airstrip. This heading took the aircraft toward high-tension power lines located just north of the private strip.

Sequence of Events

The pilot selected a flight path over the lowest sag in the power lines. However, neither he nor the passenger saw the static cables situated above the main transmission lines. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with an upper (static) cable. The cable stopped the aircraft's forward movement, causing it to drop nearly straight down to the ground.

Investigation

No further details regarding the aircraft, occupants, or circumstances have been provided in the source material. The accident investigation focuses on the factual sequence as described.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29840. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.