On February 10, 1990, a Cessna 172C (registration N1407Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Prue, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate visual scanning to avoid high-voltage power lines while flying low along a creek. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot and two passengers were flying to inspect private lakefront property when the aircraft struck high-voltage power lines and subsequently crashed into the water.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a personal flight alongside two passengers with the intention of surveying his own property located at a lake. During the course of this trip, the pilot elected to navigate along a creek that flowed directly into the lake. While flying through this corridor, the aircraft collided with high-voltage power lines. Following the impact, the plane descended and entered the lake.
The investigation
Post-accident interviews revealed that the pilot was unaware of the existence of the power lines in that specific area. He stated that he did not see the wires prior to the collision and had no prior knowledge that they were present at that location.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate visual scanning to avoid high-voltage power lines while flying low along a creek.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Feb 1990 Cessna 172C accident near Prue, OK?
A pilot and two passengers were flying to inspect private lakefront property when the aircraft struck high-voltage power lines and subsequently crashed into the water.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Feb 1990 involved a Cessna 172C, registration N1407Y, at Prue, OK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate visual scanning to avoid high-voltage power lines while flying low along a creek.
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