Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Power Lines and Collides with Terrain on Approach (N3743P)

Petersburg, MI, US

On September 8, 1992, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N3743P) operated by Jeffery T. Horkey was involved in an aviation accident near Petersburg, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE VISUAL LOOKOUT BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND DURING FINAL APPROACH. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE SUNGLARE. 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

An airplane struck electrical power transmission wires during final approach, then collided with terrain. The pilot reported sun glare and was unaware of the wires.

Accident Overview

An airplane on final approach to an airport struck electrical power transmission wires and subsequently collided with terrain. The incident occurred during daylight hours.

Sequence of Events

The airplane was on final approach when it encountered power lines. After striking the wires, it continued and impacted the ground. An airport operator witnessed the accident and was the first to reach the airplane after the impact.

Pilot Statements

In a telephone conversation, the accident pilot stated he did not remember the accident itself but recalled that the sun was in his eyes during the approach. He asked the airport operator what he had hit, and the operator informed him that he had struck wires. The pilot indicated he was not aware that the powerlines were present.

Witness Reports

Another pilot who landed just before the accident reported that the runway was difficult to see due to sunglare. The airport operator, who saw the accident, provided immediate assistance.

Investigation Notes

No further information is available from the source regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other details. The investigation's findings are limited to the facts provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15655. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.