Pilot Debrief

Taylorcraft BC12 near Cut Bank, MT — 2018-09-05

Final reportGAA18CA533
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Date
2018-09-05
Location
Cut Bank, MT, USA
Aircraft
Taylorcraft BC12
Registration
N95514
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to see and avoid power wires while maneuvering at low altitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s inability to determine the airplane’s altitude due to sun glare.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while flying west to check some fields and circle a friend's house, he began a right, descending turn about 200 ft above ground level. He added that he was aware of power wires in the area, but the sun was in his eyes, and the airplane was lower than he thought. The airplane struck power wires and then impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. 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
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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