On July 27, 1997, a Kearns RV-6 (registration N35K) was involved in an aviation accident near Harrisburg, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Contact with a power line during final approach, which resulted in the shearing off of the right main landing gear and subsequent loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach, the right landing gear contacted a power line, shearing off the wheel and causing the aircraft to spin and cartwheel before coming to rest upright.
What happened
The pilot reported that during the final approach phase of flight, the right main landing gear made contact with an overhead power line. This impact sheared off the wheel and the entire landing gear assembly. The force of the strike caused the aircraft to spin around violently and cartwheel across the ground surface.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the accident aircraft was conducted to determine if any mechanical issues contributed to the event. The inspection revealed no anomalies with the airframe or systems prior to the impact.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the contact between the landing gear and the power line during the approach. The structural failure of the landing gear was a direct result of this external impact rather than mechanical failure.
Probable cause
Contact with a power line during final approach, which resulted in the shearing off of the right main landing gear and subsequent loss of control.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 Jul 1997 Kearns RV-6 accident near Harrisburg, IL?
During final approach, the right landing gear contacted a power line, shearing off the wheel and causing the aircraft to spin and cartwheel before coming to rest upright.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Jul 1997 involved a Kearns RV-6, registration N35K, at Harrisburg, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Contact with a power line during final approach, which resulted in the shearing off of the right main landing gear and subsequent loss of control.
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