Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-140 near Sunnyside, WA — 2013-02-09

Final reportWPR13CA121
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Date
2013-02-09
Location
Sunnyside, WA, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-140
Registration
N6726J
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate vigilance while maneuvering at low altitude and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from power lines.

NTSB narrative

Neither the pilot nor the pilot-rated passenger provided written statements about the circumstances of the accident. Witnesses reported that the airplane was maneuvering over a freeway when it struck a series of power lines (about 45 feet above ground level) and subsequently impacted terrain. One witness reported that the airplane was maneuvering “extremely low” to the ground and appeared to be doing several low turns and dives. The witness stated that, the airplane was so low, he could see the passenger’s face through the right front window. The wings, empennage, and fuselage were substantially damaged.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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