Accident Overview
On October 16, 2015, at approximately 1940 central daylight time, a Cirrus SR22 (registration N849CD) was destroyed after striking a power line during an approach to Runway 31 at Lancaster Regional Airport (LNC) in Lancaster, Texas. The pilot, who was the sole occupant in the cockpit, was not injured, while the passenger sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was operated as a personal flight under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Flight Details
The flight departed from Mid-Way Regional Airport (JWY) in Midlothian, Texas, at about 1850. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The pilot reported practicing a 'no flap' visual approach to Runway 31 and extended the downwind leg to maintain spacing from another aircraft on final approach.
Sequence of Events
While on final approach, the airplane struck the upper static line of a set of unlit high voltage power lines located approximately one mile from the threshold of Runway 31. Upon feeling a jolt, the passenger deployed the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). The airplane continued northwest for about 200 feet and impacted a second set of high voltage power lines. The parachute and aircraft became entangled in the second set of lines, and the airplane came to rest suspended by the parachute with its nose approximately three feet above the ground. The pilot and passenger exited through the pilot's side door and jumped to the ground. Subsequently, a post-crash fire consumed the aircraft.
Environmental Conditions
The approach path to Runway 31 crossed a rural area with limited cultural lighting. At the time of the accident, the precision approach path indicator (PAPI) for both runways was inoperative due to maintenance. A Notice to Airman (NOTAM) regarding the inoperative PAPI was active, and the pilot stated he was aware of it.
Obstacle Clearance
Review of obstacle clearance information by the airport manager and Texas Department of Transportation personnel revealed that the closest tower to the struck power line was 592 feet msl, which is 105 feet above the touchdown zone elevation for Runway 31. This tower and other power lines/obstacles near LNC were below the 34:1 obstacle clearance plane required for a non-precision runway.