Casualties unknown

Pilot Collides with Cable During Swath Run, Resulting in Engine Failure (N53240)

Benson, NC, US

On July 28, 1997, a Cessna 188 (registration N53240) was involved in an aviation accident near Benson, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's collision with a cable during the swath run, which resulted in the separation of the engine gascolator line and subsequent fuel starvation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot conducting an agricultural swath run struck a cable, which severed the engine gascolator line. This caused immediate fuel starvation and total power loss, leading to a forced landing and subsequent impact with terrain.

What happened

The pilot was operating an aircraft during an agricultural application mission, specifically executing a swath run over the target area. During this phase of flight, the aircraft collided with a cable that was present in the vicinity of the flight path. This physical impact resulted in significant damage to the engine assembly.

Specifically, the collision caused the gascolator line to separate from the engine. The separation of this critical fuel component led directly to fuel starvation within the engine system. Consequently, the aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power. Following the power failure, the pilot attempted a forced landing but was unable to prevent a subsequent in-flight collision with terrain.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators conducted a detailed examination of the engine assembly and its associated accessories. The purpose of this inspection was to determine if any mechanical issues contributed to the event prior to the impact with the cable. The technical analysis revealed no evidence of a precrash mechanical failure or malfunction within the engine components themselves.

Probable cause

The pilot's collision with a cable during the swath run, which resulted in the separation of the engine gascolator line and subsequent fuel starvation.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08471. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.