Event Details
A pilot on a cross-country flight at 4,500 feet mean sea level for approximately 45 minutes descended to about 100 feet above ground level (agl) to inspect winter wheat fields for the upcoming agricultural spraying season. After leveling off, the pilot observed increasing fog along the route of flight.
Sequence of Events
In response to the developing fog, the pilot initiated a 180-degree turn to reverse course, intending to divert to an intermediate airport. During the turn, the airplane collided with a high-tension power line, severing one of the lines. The airplane subsequently impacted an adjacent farm field.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no failures or malfunctions with the airplane prior to the collision with the power line.
Weather Conditions
Weather at the time of the accident was reported as an obscured ceiling about 800 feet agl, with 2 miles visibility in fog. Winds were light and variable, and there was no precipitation.