BELLANCA 8KCAB
Knoxville, TN — October 11, 2016
Event Information
| Date | October 11, 2016 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | ERA17CA012 |
| Event ID | 20161012X54411 |
| Location | Knoxville, TN |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 35.95722, -83.80083 |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | BELLANCA |
| Model | 8KCAB |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 2 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 2 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's intentional low-altitude operation, which resulted in his failure to maintain clearance from unmarked utility wires.
Full Narrative
Shortly after departing, and while flying along a river, the airplane struck 2 of 5 unmarked utility wires that spanned across the river. The airplane subsequently impacted the water below resulting in substantial damage to the airframe and minor injuries to the pilot and passenger. When asked how the accident could have been prevented the pilot stated, "Increase altitude minimums by at least double to ensure adequate reaction time to avoid obstacles."
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.