Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 140 near Boulder, UT — 2013-01-19

Final reportWPR13FA095
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Date
2013-01-19
Location
Boulder, UT, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 140
Registration
N2341N
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper decision to maneuver at a low altitude and failure to adequately monitor the environment to maintain clearance from power lines.

NTSB narrative

A witness stated that he observed the airplane fly over his position near a state highway at an altitude he considered "low" and that the airplane's engine sounded "loud." Shortly after, he observed the airplane impact power lines that local power company personnel estimated to be about 100 feet above ground level. All major structural components of the airplane were located within close proximity to the collision location. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Witness marks located on the right wing were consistent with damage from impact with the power lines. Local residents reported having witnessed the pilot flying at low altitudes on previous flights. Based on these reports, as well as the accident witness report, it is likely that the pilot was flying at a low altitude during the accident flight and failed to maintain clearance from the power lines.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided low altitude flight near power lines.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents12

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