Background
The accident occurred after an aerial photography flight. The tower involved is designated as the Harrisonville Site, standing 843 feet tall. It is painted red and white and equipped with a red flashing light, which was operational at the time. The tower is depicted on both the Kansas City Sectional Aeronautical Chart and the Kansas State Aeronautical Charts.
Flight Details
The pilot reported that the flight was conducted at an altitude of 700 feet above ground level (agl). After completing the photography work, the pilot began a gradual climb while making slow clearing turns. While on a northerly heading at approximately 800 feet agl, the pilot felt a jolt and temporarily lost control of the airplane. Control was regained, and the pilot continued to a nearby airport, where an uneventful landing was made.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed that the airplane had contacted a guy wire of the antenna tower. The outboard 40 inches of the left wing were found on the ground below the tower. Inspection of the tower showed no damage or paint transfers, although the tower is reinforced with guy wires. ATC involvement is not mentioned in the source.