CESSNA 170B

Jefferson, OR — August 19, 2011

Event Information

DateAugust 19, 2011
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberWPR11CA397
Event ID20110822X05515
LocationJefferson, OR
CountryUSA
Coordinates44.72250, -123.02028
AirportJefferson
Highest InjuryMINR

Aircraft

MakeCESSNA
Model170B
CategoryAIR
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor2
None0
Total Injured2

Event Location

Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power transmission lines during the landing approach into the sun.

Full Narrative

The private pilot was attempting to perform a landing into a grass field just prior to sunset. The landing approach was performed to the west, towards the sun. During the final approach, about 30 feet above ground level, he became aware of power transmission lines directly ahead. The airplane struck the lines and descended to the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage during the accident sequence, and the pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. According to the United States Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department, the altitude and azimuth of the sun at 1940 in the closest town were 5 degrees and 283.4 degrees, respectively. The pilot stated that this was the first time he had landed at this location, but he had both overflown, and walked along the field on multiple occasions prior. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

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.

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