Incident Overview
On 16 August 1999 at 2000 hours, a private pilot flying a Reims Cessna F172N (registration G-RUIA) experienced a power cable strike during a practice forced landing at Knockin Strip, Shropshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1979 and powered by a Lycoming O-320-H2AD piston engine, sustained damage to the nose spinner and a slight indentation to the right wing leading edge.
Pilot Information
The commander, aged 36, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 128 hours of flying experience, including 22 hours on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 13 hours, with 5 hours in the last 28 days.
Flight Details
After a flight in the local area, the pilot decided to carry out a practice forced landing on Runway 09. The wind was calm and visibility exceeded 10 km. On final approach, while concentrating on the planned touchdown point, the pilot became aware that the aircraft was descending towards 11 kV power cables located 239 metres before the strip. The cables had blended into the background up to that point.
Incident Sequence
The pilot immediately applied full power to go-around. However, the aircraft's spinner struck and parted the cable. The pilot reported no handling problems and subsequently landed the aircraft without further incident. No injuries were sustained by the pilot, who was the sole occupant.
Aircraft Damage
Inspection revealed damage to the nose spinner and a slight indentation to the right wing leading edge. The aircraft was not otherwise damaged.