No fatalities

Airplane Strikes Power Lines During Low-Level Maneuvering Over Freeway

Sunnyside, WA, United States

On February 9, 2013, a PIPER PA-28-140 operated by John Gilman was involved in an aviation accident near Sunnyside, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s inadequate vigilance while maneuvering at low altitude and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from power lines. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane struck power lines at about 45 feet above ground while maneuvering over a freeway, then impacted terrain. Substantial damage occurred; no pilot/passenger statements provided.

Accident Overview

The accident involved an airplane that struck a series of power lines while maneuvering over a freeway, subsequently impacting terrain. Witnesses reported that the airplane was flying extremely low to the ground, performing low turns and dives. One witness stated they could see the passenger's face through the right front window. The power lines were approximately 45 feet above ground level.

Damage Assessment

The wings, empennage, and fuselage of the airplane sustained substantial damage.

Pilot and Passenger Statements

Neither the pilot nor the pilot-rated passenger has provided written statements regarding the circumstances of the accident.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotAltitude — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Wire

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Feb 2013 PIPER PA-28-140 accident near Sunnyside, WA?

An airplane struck power lines at about 45 feet above ground while maneuvering over a freeway, then impacted terrain. Substantial damage occurred; no pilot/passenger statements provided.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Feb 2013 PIPER PA-28-140 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Feb 2013 involved a PIPER PA-28-140, operated by John Gilman, at Sunnyside, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s inadequate vigilance while maneuvering at low altitude and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from power lines.