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NTSB Report
October 10, 2019 · Piper PA18 150 · N4138Z
Big Flats, NY
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
October 10, 2019
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Big Flats, NY
Aircraft
Piper PA18 150 (1964)
Tail Number
N4138Z
Operator
Harris Hill Soaring
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA20CA008
The pilot reported that, before takeoff from an off-airport grass field, he consulted his mentor on best practices to takeoff and avoid obstacles. During the takeoff roll, he realized that the planned flightpath was "risky," so he "made a ground track deviation." Subsequently, the left wing struck a guy wire and folded back, and the right wing struck another guy wire. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's improper flight planning and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from wires during takeoff.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, prior to takeoff on an off-airport grass field, he consulted his mentor on best practices to takeoff and avoid obstacles. During the takeoff roll, he realized that the planned flight path was "risky", so he "made a ground track deviation." The left wing struck a guy wire, folded back, and the right wing struck another guy wire. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:45 EDT
Nearest Airport1nm WSW
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA18 150
Tail NumberN4138Z
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorHarris Hill Soaring
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320-A4M · Reciprocating · 180
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 57 · First Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind30° @ 5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point64 F / 50
Altimeter30.23 inHg
Observation Time21:53
Weather SourceWFAC