On August 24, 2003, a Cessna 140 (registration N140GS) was involved in an aviation accident near Edwardsburg, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot not maintaining altitude/clearance from the power line during his low level cruise. Factors were the power transmission line, the lake, and low altitude flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A low-flying airplane struck power lines, then crashed into a lake, sustaining substantial damage. A witness reported the plane banked right before the wing hit the line.
Accident Overview
An airplane sustained substantial damage after colliding with power lines and impacting a lake. The aircraft was observed flying at low altitude prior to the accident.
Witness Account
According to a Sheriff's report, a boater on a pontoon witnessed the incident. He reported that the airplane entered the channel and began banking to the right. The wing then struck a power line, causing the airplane to spin and land on its belly on the water. The aircraft subsequently went down nose-first, with only the tail visible five to six feet underwater.
Environmental Conditions
Local weather conditions were clear, with visibility reported at 10 statute miles. No pre-impact anomalies were noted.
Aircraft Equipment
The airplane was not equipped with shoulder harnesses, and such equipment was not required by regulation at the time of the accident.