The Incident
Shortly after takeoff, a pilot realized he had left his wallet, containing his pilot credentials, behind. He turned around and initiated a southerly approach to his private airstrip. During the approach, he encountered a sudden wind change or downdraft. The nose landing gear struck an electrical line.
Post-Strike Actions
The pilot abandoned the approach and subsequently performed low passes over two airports. At both locations, ground personnel confirmed that the nose landing gear was twisted 90 degrees to the left, pushed back, and dangling.
Fuel Burn and Landing
The pilot then proceeded northeast, circling for approximately one hour to burn off fuel. He returned to the second airport and executed a landing. When the nose landing gear contacted the runway, it caused the airplane to veer to the left. The aircraft came to a halt on the grass adjacent to the runway.