Pilot Debrief

BARROWS Bearhawk LSA near Holly Springs, NC — 2019-04-22

Final reportERA19LA157
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Date
2019-04-22
Location
Holly Springs, NC, USA
Airport
N21
Aircraft
BARROWS Bearhawk LSA
Registration
N289EH
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from powerlines during the visual approach.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while on final approach for landing, the airplane impacted powerlines and collided with the ground, resulting in substantial damage. He stated that he knew of the powerlines, but stated that he had not checked the airport/facility directory, which noted the placement and height of the powerlines. Examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. A review of airport information revealed that the powerlines were located 50 ft from the runway threshold and were 60 ft tall. The accident is consistent with the pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a known obstacle during the landing approach.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot did not check airport directory for powerline information before flight.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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