On July 13, 2006, a Cessna 172E (registration N5560T) operated by Christopher Cyphers was involved in an aviation accident near Big Lake, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from a transmission wire during a low-altitude maneuver. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot conducting a local flight under Part 91 struck a transmission wire during a low-altitude maneuver but managed to land safely despite structural damage.
What happened
The incident involved a private pilot operating a personal aircraft under the regulations of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The flight was conducted as a local trip when the pilot initiated a low-altitude maneuver. During this phase of flight, the airplane collided with a transmission wire that was suspended between utility poles.
Despite the impact, the pilot retained control of the aircraft and continued the flight without further incident. The pilot successfully landed the airplane at the intended destination. Post-landing inspection revealed structural damage to the right wing, the right lift-strut, and the rudder. No injuries were reported among the occupants.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from a transmission wire during a low-altitude maneuver.
What happened in the 13 Jul 2006 Cessna 172E accident near Big Lake, AK?
A private pilot conducting a local flight under Part 91 struck a transmission wire during a low-altitude maneuver but managed to land safely despite structural damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jul 2006 Cessna 172E accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Jul 2006 involved a Cessna 172E, registration N5560T, operated by Christopher Cyphers, at Big Lake, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from a transmission wire during a low-altitude maneuver.
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