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Casualties unknown

Piper PA-18-150 accident at Hyannis, NE, 27 Jan 1999 (N7188Z)

Hyannis, NE, US

On January 27, 1999, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N7188Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Hyannis, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the transmission line. Factors associated with the accident were the transmission line, the low altitude at which the pilot was flying, and his diverted attention to a person on the ground. 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

Probable cause

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the transmission line. Factors associated with the accident were the transmission line, the low altitude at which the pilot was flying, and his diverted attention to a person on the ground.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot was checking the pastures when he saw a person fishing. He entered a turn to watch the person during which time the airplane contacted a transmission line. The airplane then descended to impact with the terrain. The pilot reported that he was aware of the line, but had forgotten about it.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jan 1999 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Hyannis, NE?

The pilot was checking the pastures when he saw a person fishing. He entered a turn to watch the person during which time the airplane contacted a transmission line. The airplane then descended to impact with the terrain. The pilot reported that he was aware of the line, but had forgotten about it.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jan 1999 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N7188Z, at Hyannis, NE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the transmission line. Factors associated with the accident were the transmission line, the low altitude at which the pilot was flying, and his diverted attention to a person on the ground.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001204X00034. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.