Casualties unknown

Aerial Application Aircraft Collides with Power Line (N9523G)

Waterville, WA, US

On September 15, 1993, a Cessna A188B (registration N9523G) operated by Johnson Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Waterville, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE VISUAL LOOKOUT AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CLEARANCE FROM THE POWERLINE. 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 an aerial application mission, the aircraft struck a power line approximately 100 feet above the ground, resulting in structural separation and a subsequent crash.

What happened

The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting an aerial application flight operation. During this phase of the mission, the airplane encountered and collided with a power line situated at an approximate altitude of 100 feet above the ground.

Upon impact with the wires, significant structural damage occurred to the forward and upper sections of the fuselage. The canopy separated from the airframe, as did the top portion of the vertical stabilizer and the rudder. Following this collision, the aircraft continued to travel a short distance before the pilot attempted to regain control.

The airplane then pitched up steeply, indicating a loss of aerodynamic stability or control authority. This maneuver was followed by a descent in a left turn, which ultimately led to the aircraft impacting with the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13484. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.