Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172 near Bonners Ferry, ID — 2017-11-07

Final reportGAA18CA044
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Date
2017-11-07
Location
Bonners Ferry, ID, USA
Airport
65S
Aircraft
CESSNA 172
Registration
N55234
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to see and avoid power lines while maneuvering at a low altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, about 50 ft above the ground during a "low recon" over a river bar, he did not see power lines crossing the river until they were about 10 ft in front of the airplane. Subsequently, the airplane's empennage struck the wires; he then added power and initiated a climb. He returned to the airport and landed without further incident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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