On August 28, 2002, a Piper PA-28R-180 (registration N4988J) was involved in an aviation accident near Newaygo, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The altitude/clearance disregarded by the pilot and his ostentatious display. The wire and low altitude flight were a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane impacted a power line over a river and sank into 25-30 feet of water after being observed flying at extremely low altitude. Examination found no anomalies.
Accident Details
An airplane struck a power line strung across a river and subsequently sank into approximately 25 to 30 feet of water. The accident occurred after the aircraft was seen flying at an extremely low altitude.
Witness Accounts
One witness reported observing the airplane as it passed over a dam located upstream of the accident site, then swooping down to a very low altitude. Another witness stated that the airplane was flying at an altitude of about 20 feet above the river surface just before it hit the power lines.
Wreckage Examination
A thorough examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies that would have prevented normal operation of the airplane prior to the accident. No mechanical or structural failures were identified.