Accident Details
The pilot was conducting an agricultural spraying operation when the airplane collided with a static wire situated at the top of a power line. According to witnesses, the pilot was flying parallel to the power line during the spraying run. Witnesses observed the pilot begin a pull-up and a left turn, at which point the airplane's left wing tip contacted the static wire.
Investigation Findings
Examinations of the aircraft and its engine did not reveal any pre-existing discrepancies or malfunctions. The investigation focused on the circumstances of the collision.
Pilot Statement
In a statement, the pilot explained that he failed to keep the power line foremost in his mind. He indicated that he was looking past the wires toward the far end of the pasture that he was spraying, and as a result did not see the wire that the airplane hit.
Conclusion
The accident occurred when the airplane's left wing tip struck a static wire atop a power line during an agricultural spraying operation. No mechanical factors were identified.