On July 10, 1991, a Cessna A188B (registration N4905Q) operated by Mcneil, Kenneth W. was involved in an aviation accident near St. Matthews, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN SAFE CLEARANCE FROM POWER LINES, WHILE MANEUVERING TO AVOID AN AUTOMOBILE IN THE AREA OF HIS SPRAYING OPERATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An agricultural pilot spraying cotton, timing passes to avoid road traffic, pulled up to avoid a braking automobile, struck power lines, lost control, and crashed into a field.
Overview
An agricultural aircraft was involved in an accident while conducting aerial spraying operations over a cotton field. The pilot had been timing his flight passes specifically to avoid automobile traffic on an adjacent road. The operation required careful coordination with road users to ensure safe separation.
Sequence of Events
During one pass, the aircraft was committed to flying under a double set of power lines. As the airplane approached, a driver of an oncoming automobile applied its brakes. In response to the driver's action, the pilot abruptly pulled up to avoid a potential collision with the automobile. This evasive maneuver caused the airplane to make contact with the power lines.
Outcome
After striking the wires, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The airplane then crashed into an adjacent field. The spraying operation was being conducted in an agricultural area.
What happened in the 10 Jul 1991 Cessna A188B accident near St. Matthews, SC?
An agricultural pilot spraying cotton, timing passes to avoid road traffic, pulled up to avoid a braking automobile, struck power lines, lost control, and crashed into a field.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jul 1991 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N4905Q, operated by Mcneil, Kenneth W., at St. Matthews, SC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN SAFE CLEARANCE FROM POWER LINES, WHILE MANEUVERING TO AVOID AN AUTOMOBILE IN THE AREA OF HIS SPRAYING OPERATION.
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