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Witness Reports Aircraft Struck Power Lines Near Coosa River (N4336Q)

Gadsden, AL, US

On September 29, 2004, a Cessna 172L (registration N4336Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Gadsden, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructors failure to maintain clearance and his inadequate visual lookout while flying low over a river resulting in an in-flight collision with a wire. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A witness observed a red-and-white airplane in straight and level flight before it made a steep right turn and disappeared. A pop sound was heard, and power lines were found broken. The aircraft was recovered with a power line and transformer attached to the right main landing gear. Examination found no anomalies.

Witness Account

A witness reported hearing an airplane approaching his home from the direction of flight towards the south. Looking out his window, he observed a red and white airplane flying in straight and level flight above the treetops. The airplane then made a steep right turn and disappeared from view. Shortly thereafter, the witness heard a "pop" sound and immediately left his house to investigate.

Power Line Strike Evidence

Upon arriving at the Coosa River, the witness observed that power lines on both sides of the river had been broken. The aircraft was subsequently recovered with a power line and transformer still attached to the right main landing gear strut fairing. Wire marks were present on the right main landing gear strut fairing inboard of the brake assembly, extending inboard 5 1/2 inches.

Post-accident Examination

An examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly, and accessories revealed no anomalies.

Investigation Status

The investigation did not identify any mechanical or structural issues with the aircraft prior to the occurrence. The event remains documented as reported by the witness and supported by physical evidence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Sept 2004 Cessna 172L accident near Gadsden, AL?

A witness observed a red-and-white airplane in straight and level flight before it made a steep right turn and disappeared. A pop sound was heard, and power lines were found broken. The aircraft was recovered with a power line and transformer attached to the right main landing gear. Examination found no anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Sept 2004 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N4336Q, at Gadsden, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight instructors failure to maintain clearance and his inadequate visual lookout while flying low over a river resulting in an in-flight collision with a wire.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041001X01553. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.