No fatalities

Pilot Collides with Power Lines on Approach to Runway 5 (N2501X)

San Diego, CA, US

On December 24, 1993, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N2501X) operated by Plus One Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near San Diego, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE EXISTING WIND CONDITIONS AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN A PROPER GLIDEPATH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a long final approach to runway 5 in an 18 knot headwind, a pilot encountered turbulence and possible wind shear, colliding with power lines 5,000 feet from the runway. The pilot recovered and landed safely.

Incident Description

The pilot reported being on a long final approach to runway 5 when the flight experienced 'some turbulence and possible wind shear' amidst an 18 knot headwind. The aircraft subsequently collided with high tension power lines located approximately 5,000 feet from the approach end of the runway.

Recovery and Landing

After striking the power lines, the pilot was able to recover control and complete a landing on the runway. The aircraft landed without further incident.

Air Traffic Control Observations

No pilot reports of turbulence or wind shear were noted by the air traffic control tower either before or after the aircraft landed.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Dec 1993 Piper PA-28-181 accident near San Diego, CA?

During a long final approach to runway 5 in an 18 knot headwind, a pilot encountered turbulence and possible wind shear, colliding with power lines 5,000 feet from the runway. The pilot recovered and landed safely.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Dec 1993 Piper PA-28-181 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Dec 1993 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N2501X, operated by Plus One Flying Club, at San Diego, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE EXISTING WIND CONDITIONS AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN A PROPER GLIDEPATH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13880. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.