Accident Details
The accident occurred during a nighttime departure in visual meteorological conditions. The pilot was communicating via cell phone with a friend who was driving northbound on a highway. While maneuvering the airplane at low altitude over the highway, the aircraft contacted power lines situated approximately 100 feet above ground level.
Impact and Fire
Following the power line strike, the airplane impacted the ground and came to rest in a ditch. A postcrash fire ensued, which destroyed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any preimpact malfunctions. The pilot had reported 4,000 hours of total flight experience on his most recent application for a medical certificate, which was issued about six months prior to the accident.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at an airport located about two miles southeast of the accident site, around the time of the accident, included a visibility of 10 statute miles and scattered clouds at 9,500 feet.
Pilot Actions
The pilot had been communicating with a friend driving on the highway while maneuvering the airplane at low altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck power lines spanning the highway.