Accident Overview
On April 22, 2019, about 1500 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Bearhawk LSA, N289EH, was substantially damaged when it struck powerlines and collided with the ground near Holly Ridge, North Carolina. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained serious injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, while on final approach to his destination airport, he noticed a line of trees. After clearing the trees, he began his descent to runway 14. On short final, the airplane became entangled in powerlines and crashed. The pilot stated that he was aware of the powerlines but believed they might have been raised. He also reported that he had not consulted the airport/facility directory before the flight, which contained information on the placement and height of the powerlines.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the airplane was intact and came to rest on its nose. The nose section was crushed aft, and both wings displayed leading edge crush damage. No anomalies were observed with the flight controls.
Airport Information
Review of airport information indicated that the powerlines were located 50 feet from the runway 14 threshold and were 60 feet tall. Runway 14 featured a displaced threshold with an approach slope ratio of 1:1 to clear the powerlines.