3 Nov 2009: AMERICAN AVIATION AA1 A

3 Nov 2009: AMERICAN AVIATION AA1 A — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Lake Placid, FL, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a power line.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

During a local sightseeing flight, the pilot descended through an altitude of 1,000 feet to be able to see a waterway below him. As the pilot performed the low flight maneuver, the airplane impacted a power line, causing the vertical stabilizer to separate from the airplane. The pilot reported experiencing resistance and a vibration with the airplane, followed by a loss of control. He was able to subsequently perform a forced landing straight ahead, during which the airplane sustained damage to the nose gear and to the rudder. A witness stated he heard a low flying airplane, followed by a loud noise similar to a "pop," and then he observed the airplane dragging a cable. Examination of the accident site by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, revealed the vertical stabilizer, with 150 feet of power line still attached, was located approximately 300 feet aft of the wreckage. No pre-impact malfunctions were reported by the pilot or identified during the post-accident examination.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Incorrect use/operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 020/09kt, vis 10sm

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