Contributing To The Accident Was The Pilot’s Impairment Due To Alcohol And Methamphetamine Use

Location: Bainbridge, Georgia Accident Number: ERA24LA297
Date & Time: July 4, 2024, 19:20 Local Registration: UNREG
Aircraft: Buckeye Dream Machine Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot of the unregistered powered parachute did not hold a Federal Aviation Administration-issued pilot or medical certificate. Witnesses stated that the pilot was flying over a highway when the powered parachute collided with powerlines and a postimpact fire ensued. Additionally, witness video showed the powered parachute flying low near the highway and powerlines just prior to the accident. The pilot was fatally injured and fire consumed a majority of the powered parachute. No pilot or aircraft maintenance logbooks were recovered. 

Toxicological testing results of the pilot’s blood were positive for ethanol and methamphetamine. It is likely that the pilot was impaired by both substances when he failed to avoid the powerlines.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The non-certificated pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines while maneuvering at low altitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s impairment due to alcohol and methamphetamine use.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov