Accident
On October 21, 2017, at about 1113 mountain standard time, an American Aviation AA-1A airplane, registration N9239L, was substantially damaged after striking power lines near Maricopa, Arizona. The pilot and passenger sustained serious injuries. The flight was being conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
According to the pilot’s son, his father was returning to the departure airport when the accident occurred. A witness reported that the airplane “seemed slow and low” during the approach to land and subsequently struck power lines. After the impact, the airplane descended rapidly and hit the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.
Witness Accounts
Several witnesses noted that the power lines involved were unmarked and located above a separate line that was marked with orange guide balls. One witness observed a power line wrapped around the landing gear of the airplane.
Investigation
Examination of the airplane found no evidence of any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Control continuity was established. The pilot did not recall the accident.