Incident Details
During final approach to runway 17, the pilot reported being distracted by the runway's composition and dimensions. He identified high tension power lines just before impact. Despite attempting to pull up, the propeller and engine cowl struck the power lines. The airplane then slid down the wires and came to rest in a corn field. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage aft of the cabin and the empennage.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or anomalies with any part of the airplane during the flight that would have prevented normal operations.
Runway and Obstacle Description
According to the Airport/Facility Directory, the first 630 feet of runway 17 consists of gravel and turf with a width of 60 feet. The next 1,300 feet is a 14-foot-wide concrete section flanked by 18 feet of turf on each side. The final 1,120 feet comprises a 12-to-25-foot-wide section of gravel and asphalt chips, with 12.5 to 17.5 feet of turf on each side. The displaced threshold is marked with five tires on each side of the runway.
High tension power lines are located approximately 1,200 feet north of the runway threshold and lack any safety markings. These power lines intersect and cross the approach end of runway 17 at about a 30-degree angle. The power lines are depicted on the FAA Aeronautical Chart for the airport.