Visual Approach Collision with Utility Pole (N66MT)

Incident Description and Pilot Account During an instrument landing system (ILS) approach, the pilot reported that the autopilot was coupled to the approach and the glide slope. Approximately 2.5 to 3 miles from the airport, the pilot visually acquired the approach lights and runway lights. At that point, the pilot disconnected the autopilot and yaw damper to hand-fly a visual approach, using the glide slope indicator as a cross-check for the correct glide path. The pilot stated that the glide slope indicator showed the aircraft was slightly above the glide path, which was corrected. Seconds later, the aircraft struck a pole that was passing through electrical wires. The aircraft came to rest short of the approach lights and to the right of the intended path. ## Investigation Findings An examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies. An examination of the ILS approach to the runway showed that the facility operated satisfactorily.