Aircraft Collision with Power Line During Circling Approach (N6754Y)

Incident Overview and Damage Assessment The aircraft sustained substantial damage after making contact with a power line and subsequently impacting the terrain while executing a circling approach. The pilot reported that no injuries occurred during the incident. The aircraft came to rest in a plowed field approximately 2,000 feet from the runway threshold. ## Weather Conditions and Flight Narrative The pilot stated that the pre-flight weather briefing indicated cloud tops at approximately 8,000 feet MSL, negative icing reports, and visual flight rules (VFR) conditions at the destination with high cirrus clouds. During the climb, the pilot reported that the aircraft accumulated about 1/8 inch of rime ice. En route, the pilot confirmed that the cloud tops were at 20,000 feet MSL, which led to the decision to return to the departure airport. ## Approach and Collision During the descent, the aircraft accumulated an additional 1/8 inch of rime ice. The pilot initiated a circling approach to land, entering a close left downwind for runway 23. The pilot noted that it was difficult to see the runway due to ice on the windshield as the aircraft turned final. The pilot stated that the aircraft struck the top ground line on the towered power lines. ## Mechanical Status The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction or failure associated with the flight.