Casualties unknown

1998-07-17: Grumman-schweizer G-164A (N7951) — Caldwell, ID

Caldwell, ID, US

On July 17, 1998, a Grumman-schweizer G-164A (registration N7951) was involved in an aviation accident near Caldwell, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the height of a power line, resulting in a collision with the line. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot misjudged the height of a power line while approaching a field for a spray run, resulting in a collision that substantially damaged the aircraft but allowed a safe return to base.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during an approach to a field for a spray run, he misjudged the height of a power line in the vicinity and struck it. The impact cut the power line. The aircraft sustained substantial damage from the collision. Despite the damage, the pilot was able to return to the home airstrip and land without further incident.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, no mechanical malfunction or failure was involved in the accident. The event occurred under dark night conditions in the accident area. The pilot's misjudgment of the power line's height led to the collision.

Aircraft Damage

The aircraft suffered substantial damage as a result of striking the power line. However, the aircraft remained controllable, allowing the pilot to fly back to the home airstrip and execute a landing without additional issues.

Environmental Conditions

Dark night conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. No further details about weather or visibility were provided in the report.

Conclusion

The accident involved the pilot striking a power line due to misjudging its height. The aircraft was substantially damaged but returned safely to its base.

Probable cause

The pilot misjudged the height of a power line, resulting in a collision with the line.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10721. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.