Incident Overview
A pilot and a student pilot were conducting an engine-out emergency maneuver when the aircraft collided with low-lying wires. The wires impacted the airplane's windscreen, causing a large portion of the screen to fracture.
Pilot Observations
Following the incident, the pilot reported that the power lines were barely visible, even from the ground. He expressed surprise that the wires had not been struck previously by a crop duster or during another training flight. The pilot stated that balls or markers on the wires would have made them more visible. He also acknowledged that he could have scouted the area more thoroughly before the flight.
Aircraft and Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the windscreen from the wire contact. No other damage or injuries were reported in the source.
Safety Considerations
The pilot's comments highlight the challenge of detecting low-lying wires during flight, particularly in training scenarios. While the source does not assign a probable cause, the incident underscores the importance of pre-flight reconnaissance and visibility aids for power lines.