Incident Overview
During a cross-country flight, an uncertificated pilot experienced low fuel levels and decided to make a precautionary landing to refuel from a 5-gallon can of gasoline he had aboard. At about 0330 local time in dusk conditions, the pilot observed what he believed to be an airstrip and initiated an approach to land.
Collision with Power Line
During the approach, the airplane collided with a power line that was approximately 18 feet above the ground. The pilot later recounted the event to a law enforcement officer in a telephone conversation.
Runway Conditions
According to the owner of the private airstrip, the runway was under construction at the time of the incident. Trees had recently been cut down on the approach end of the runway, exposing a power line that had previously been shrouded by the trees.
Pilot Certification
A search of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records revealed that the pilot did not hold a pilot's license or a medical certificate, indicating he was uncertificated.