Accident Details
The airplane was en route when the pilot decided to divert to an alternate airport due to weather conditions. While turning toward the alternate airport, the aircraft struck powerlines. Despite the collision, the pilot successfully landed the airplane at the intended alternate airport without further incident.
Weather Conditions
According to the pilot, weather along the planned route had deteriorated. The pilot contacted the Flight Service Station (FSS) by radio and was informed that the ceiling at Soledad Canyon, the accident location, was approximately 3,500 feet. The elevation at Soledad Pass, as indicated on the Los Angeles VFR Terminal Area Chart, is 3,225 feet mean sea level. Dusk lighting conditions prevailed as the pilot entered the canyon, and the pilot assessed the ceiling to be lower than the forecast. This led to the decision to divert.
The nearest official weather observation station reported a broken ceiling at 3,600 feet, with higher layers present.
Post-Accident Findings
Examination of the airplane after the accident disclosed damage to both propellers, the nose gear door, and the left tip tank. No other damage was noted. The aircraft landed uneventfully at the alternate airport.