Aerial Spraying Aircraft Strikes Power Lines

Casualties unknown • Hazelton, ND, US

An aircraft involved in an aerial spraying operation struck multiple power lines, resulting in a post-accident fire and the pilot being pulled from the wreckage.

What happened

During an aerial spraying flight, the aircraft struck at least three power lines while maneuvering for a spray pass. The impact severed two of the lines and caused fraying to a third. Following the collision with the wires, the plane struck the ground with its left wing low and came to rest in an inverted position.

A post-accident fire destroyed the wreckage. Witnesses at the scene were able to pull the unconscious pilot from the burning aircraft.

Findings

The pilot reported that the aircraft started under a wire but could remember no further details of the event. An examination of the pilot's medical records revealed a vision waiver that required the use of corrective lenses. However, investigators found no evidence to suggest that the pilot was wearing corrective lenses during the flight.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to wear required corrective lenses during the flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1990-06-22 Piper PA-25-260 accident near Hazelton, ND?

An aircraft involved in an aerial spraying operation struck multiple power lines, resulting in a post-accident fire and the pilot being pulled from the wreckage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1990-06-22 involved a Piper PA-25-260, registration N4988Y, operated by Midwest Air Center, at Hazelton, ND.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to wear required corrective lenses during the flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23395. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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