Aircraft strike utility pole during visual approach

Casualties unknown • Ames, IA, US

A pilot flying a visual approach using glide slope indications struck a utility pole and electrical wires before coming to rest short of the approach lights.

What happened

During an ILS approach, the pilot was utilizing the autopilot, which was coupled to both the localizer and the glide slope. Approximately 2.5 to 3 miles from the runway, the approach lights and runway lights became visible. At this stage, the pilot disconnected the autopilot and the yaw damper to hand-fly a visual approach, using the glide slope indicator as a cross-check for the correct descent path.

While continuing the visual approach, the pilot noted that the glide slope indicated the aircraft was slightly above the established path. While attempting to correct the descent, the aircraft struck a pole and electrical wires. The aircraft came to rest short of the approach lights and to the right of the runway.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical anomalies. Additionally, an inspection of the ILS approach facility indicated that the equipment was operating satisfactorily.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to correct a slightly high glide path during a visual approach led to the aircraft striking a utility pole and electrical wires.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-01-31 Piper PA-42-720 accident near Ames, IA?

A pilot flying a visual approach using glide slope indications struck a utility pole and electrical wires before coming to rest short of the approach lights.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-01-31 involved a Piper PA-42-720, registration N66MT, at Ames, IA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to correct a slightly high glide path during a visual approach led to the aircraft striking a utility pole and electrical wires.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020201X00163. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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