On May 23, 1990, a Grumman G-164A (registration N913X) operated by Aero Crop Services was involved in an aviation accident near Hunlock Creek, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM OBTACLES, AND HIS FAILURE TO SEE AND AVOID THE ELECTRICAL TRANSMISSION LINE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses observed an agricultural aircraft flying low over a river, striking power lines, then rolling over and entering the water at a steep angle after a blue flash of electricity.
Incident Overview
Witnesses reported that they observed the aircraft as it flew up the river, and watched it again as it returned down the river. The witnesses generally agreed that the aircraft was flying low over the river and it struck the power lines that crossed the river. The aircraft was observed to 'swing side to side', then it rolled over and entered the river at a steep angle. Several witnesses reported that they saw a blue flash/flash of electricity when the aircraft struck the power lines.
Operational Context
The aircraft was being operated for aerial application of a gypsy moth insecticide.