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NTSB Report
May 9, 2013 · Piper J3C-65 · N21609
Selma, NC
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 9, 2013
Injury Outcomes
2 injuries (2 minor injuries)
Location
Selma, NC
Aircraft
Piper J3C-65
Tail Number
N21609
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA13CA234
According to the instructor pilot, he was at the airplane controls while he demonstrated a touch and go landing with the student pilot. He stated that the airplane collided with unmarked power lines during an attempt to land on an undesignated grass strip. The airplane came to rest on the ground inverted. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the airplane fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The instructor pilot’s inadequate visual lookout, which resulted in a collision with power lines and then the ground.
Full Narrative
According to the instructor pilot, he was at the airplane controls while he demonstrated a touch and go landing with the student pilot. He stated that the airplane collided with unmarked power lines during an attempt to land on an undesignated grass strip. The airplane came to rest on the ground inverted. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the airplane fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time19:24 EDT
Nearest AirportNo Identifier (0nm)
Runway27
Runway Length2000 ft
Runway Width50 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper J3C-65
Tail NumberN21609
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsCont Motor · A&C65 SERIES · Reciprocating · 65
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury Summary2 injuries (2 minor injuries)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor2
Uninjured0
Total2
Crew 1Age 64 · First Class · Minor
Crew 2Age 14 · None · Minor
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDusk
Wind210° @ 3 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point55
Altimeter30.02 inHg
Observation Time23:15
Weather SourceWFAC