What happened
The pilot was performing low passes over a field as part of training to become an agricultural pilot. During these maneuvers, the pilot failed to see three power transmission cables. The propeller of the aircraft struck a 300-foot span of number 8 gauge copper conductor, which was suspended approximately 45 to 50 feet above the ground.
Following the impact, an in-flight fire erupted in the cockpit area. The fire originated at a break in a fuel line running from the fuel selector valve to the engine. The pilot sustained second and third degree burns to his face, arms, and left leg. During the emergency, the pilot performed a hard landing that resulted in the collapse of one of the main landing gear. The pilot was able to egress the aircraft unaided, but the fire continued to spread and ultimately destroyed the airplane.
The investigation
The investigation found no evidence of mechanical failures or malfunctions occurring with the aircraft prior to the collision with the power transmission cables.