On September 9, 1997, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3637M) operated by Joe E. Cenarrusa was involved in an aviation accident near Horseshoe Bend, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from transmission wires. The wires were a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A lead airplane flying below the ridge line collided with three unmarked transmission wires strung across a valley at heights between 33 and 60 feet above ground.
Incident Overview
A lead airplane flying through a valley collided with three unmarked transmission wires. The wires were strung across the valley at a minimum altitude of 33 feet and a maximum altitude of 60 feet above the ground. At the time of the accident, the lead airplane was flying below the ridge line and centered in the valley.
Pilot Account
A second pilot, who was flying behind and above the accident airplane, reported observing the lead airplane before the collision. As the second airplane came around a slight turn in the valley, the lead pilot transmitted over the radio that there was a car on the road below. The second pilot looked down to locate the car and the lead airplane, then looked back into the cockpit. When the second pilot looked back outside a few seconds later, the lead airplane had already collided with the transmission wires.
What happened in the 9 Sept 1997 Piper PA-12 accident near Horseshoe Bend, ID?
A lead airplane flying below the ridge line collided with three unmarked transmission wires strung across a valley at heights between 33 and 60 feet above ground.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Sept 1997 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N3637M, operated by Joe E. Cenarrusa, at Horseshoe Bend, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to maintain clearance from transmission wires. The wires were a factor.
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