Aircraft impact with power lines during low-level maneuvering

Casualties unknown • Rio Vista, CA, US

A pilot performing low-level maneuvers near wind generators and power lines struck a wire with the aircraft's right main gear after being temporarily blinded by the sun.

What happened

The pilot had been conducting low-level maneuvers for approximately 30 minutes in an area containing power lines and wind generators. During the flight, the pilot initiated a slow, climbing right turn to transition toward a new work area located to the right front of the aircraft.

While the sun was initially obscured by a cloud, allowing the pilot to see the power lines and wind generators ahead, the sun subsequently emerged from behind the cloud. This movement temporarily blinded the pilot. At that moment, an observer in the rear seat alerted the pilot to look out. As the aircraft was flying up a draw, the pilot identified wires crossing the flight path and attempted to maneuver around them. However, the aircraft's right main gear made contact with the final wire. The impact caused the wire to snap, resulting in the airplane falling to the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to avoid power lines was unsuccessful after being temporarily blinded by the sun.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-03-13 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Rio Vista, CA?

A pilot performing low-level maneuvers near wind generators and power lines struck a wire with the aircraft's right main gear after being temporarily blinded by the sun.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-03-13 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N82751, at Rio Vista, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to avoid power lines was unsuccessful after being temporarily blinded by the sun.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20683. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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