On July 2, 1993, a Gulfstream G-164B (registration N8163K) operated by Johnston, Billy F. was involved in an aviation accident near Selmer, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Contact with high-tension power lines during agricultural operations, compounded by the pilot's history of regulatory non-compliance leading to certificate revocation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft collided with high-tension power lines during agricultural operations, leaving cable marks on the wing. The pilot's operator certificate had been revoked in 1969 due to regulatory violations.
What happened
The wreckage was located in a field situated approximately 600 feet from high-tension power lines. Investigation of the site revealed that the lowest hanging cable had been broken during the incident. Examination of the aircraft wreckage identified distinct cable marks on the leading edge of the upper right wing, indicating contact with the power line infrastructure.
The investigation
Review of the pilot's credentials revealed significant regulatory history. The pilot held an agricultural operator certificate that was revoked by an emergency order in 1969. This revocation was cited due to numerous violations of Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) at that time.
Probable cause
Contact with high-tension power lines during agricultural operations, compounded by the pilot's history of regulatory non-compliance leading to certificate revocation.