Casualties unknown

Aerial Application Aircraft Collides with Power Line and Burns (N9422R)

Aiken, SC, US

On September 11, 1990, a Cessna A188B (registration N9422R) was involved in an aviation accident near Aiken, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot pulled up late and collided with a static wire topping the electrical transmission lines. 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

During the second malathion application of the day for the USDA Boll Weevil Eradication Program, a pilot collided with a static wire atop transmission lines after completing 14 swath runs, then impacted ground and burned.

Incident Overview

A pilot engaged in aerial application of malathion on cotton for the USDA Boll Weevil Eradication Program was involved in an accident during the second application flight of the day. Electrical transmission wires crossed over the western end of the field being sprayed.

Sequence of Events

According to USDA monitors positioned adjacent to the field, the pilot had maintained radio contact with them and had not reported any problems or difficulties. Approximately 14 swath runs had been completed when the monitors observed the pilot pull up late. The aircraft then collided with one of the static wires that topped the electrical transmission lines. Following the collision, the airplane impacted the ground and burned.

Additional Details

The monitors stated that the pilot had not identified any issues prior to the accident. The specific aircraft type, registration, and further details regarding occupants or injuries are not included in the available information.

Probable cause

The pilot pulled up late and collided with a static wire topping the electrical transmission lines.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24175. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.