Empennage Strikes Power Lines During Low Recon Over River Bar

Overview

A pilot was conducting a low reconnaissance flight over a river bar when the airplane's empennage struck power lines. The aircraft sustained substantial damage but returned to the airport for a safe landing.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot's report, while flying approximately 50 feet above the ground during a low reconnaissance maneuver over a river bar, he did not see power lines crossing the river until they were about 10 feet in front of the airplane. The empennage subsequently struck the wires. The pilot then added power and initiated a climb. He returned to the airport and landed without further incident.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage as a result of striking the power lines.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.