On August 18, 1996, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N4405E) was involved in an aviation accident near Tuscaloosa, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance while maneuvering in search of a specific location, which resulted in the airplane colliding with a relay antenna. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost control briefly after striking a relay antenna while maneuvering to locate a friend's residence, but successfully recovered and landed safely without mechanical issues.
What happened
The incident occurred during low-altitude maneuvering flight while the pilot was attempting to locate the residence of a friend. According to the pilot's account, the aircraft collided with a relay antenna situated in the vicinity. The impact caused a disruption in control; however, the pilot was able to regain command of the airplane shortly after the collision.
Following the recovery of control, the pilot elected to return to the airport from which the flight had departed. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane following the incident, indicating that the aircraft remained airworthy and capable of safe operation despite the contact with the antenna structure.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance while maneuvering in search of a specific location, which resulted in the airplane colliding with a relay antenna.
What happened in the 18 Aug 1996 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Tuscaloosa, AL?
A pilot lost control briefly after striking a relay antenna while maneuvering to locate a friend's residence, but successfully recovered and landed safely without mechanical issues.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N4405E, at Tuscaloosa, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance while maneuvering in search of a specific location, which resulted in the airplane colliding with a relay antenna.
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