On February 24, 1991, a Cessna 182C (registration N8696T) operated by Billy Pike was involved in an aviation accident near Bonnyman, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to see and avoid an unmarked static wire while conducting a low pass. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a low pass to signal arrival, the pilot's aircraft struck an unmarked static wire suspended between two hills and descended to the ground.
What happened
The pilot executed a low-altitude pass over the area with the specific intent of signaling his arrival to a ground contact. This individual was expected to meet the pilot at a nearby airport upon receiving the signal. During this maneuver, the airplane collided with an unmarked static wire that was suspended between two hills. The wire was positioned approximately 200 to 250 feet above the ground surface.
The investigation
Investigators examined the site of the incident and determined the nature of the obstacle involved. The primary finding centered on the presence of the static wire which lacked any visible markings or warning devices. This lack of visibility contributed significantly to the collision during the low-altitude flight phase.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to see and avoid an unmarked static wire while conducting a low pass.
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