Accident Overview
A pilot was attempting to enter the traffic pattern when the airplane collided with a 161 KV transmission line approximately 95 feet above ground. The aircraft then fell to the ground and burst into flames. The crash occurred in a planted field two miles southeast of Muscle Shoals Airport.
Sequence of Events
A witness heard the pilot report being four miles east of the airport, requesting local weather information. The pilot also spoke with the witness, who was in the traffic pattern, and stated he would be entering right traffic for runway 29. While on base leg for runway 29, the airplane struck the power line.
Wreckage and Scene
The Tennessee Valley Authority reported an interruption on the transmission lines in the accident area at 1650. Examination of the wreckage revealed that the airplane came to rest 200 yards west of the transmission lines. Debris was scattered over an area approximately 70 feet long and 40 feet wide, oriented on a westerly heading. The wreckage was located in a planted field.
Mechanical Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane failed to disclose any mechanical problem or component failure.
Location
The accident occurred near Muscle Shoals Airport. The transmission line strike and subsequent crash site were southeast of the airport.