On September 7, 1996, a Cessna 172M (registration N12382) was involved in an aviation accident near Pacific City, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from an unmarked transmission wire while flying at low altitude. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying at 200 feet along a river failed to see an unmarked transmission wire and struck lower cables while attempting to pass underneath.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a flight along a river corridor, maintaining an altitude of approximately 200 feet above the ground. During this phase of the operation, the pilot's attention was directed toward the water surface below. Upon looking up to reorient with the surrounding environment, the pilot observed an unmarked transmission wire strung across the river.
In an effort to avoid collision, the pilot attempted to maneuver the airplane underneath the primary wire. However, a secondary set of smaller wires was located directly below the main transmission line. The aircraft struck this lower set of wires, resulting in damage to the airplane.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from an unmarked transmission wire while flying at low altitude.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Sept 1996 Cessna 172M accident near Pacific City, OR?
A pilot flying at 200 feet along a river failed to see an unmarked transmission wire and struck lower cables while attempting to pass underneath.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Sept 1996 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N12382, at Pacific City, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from an unmarked transmission wire while flying at low altitude.
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