As The Airplane Approached The Powerlines, It Appeared To Take A Sudden Nose-Down Attitude Before It Impacted

Location: Hickory, North Carolina Accident Number: ERA23LA334
Date & Time: August 13, 2023, 11:28 Local Registration: N239WD
Aircraft: Scoda Aeronautica Ltda Super Petrel LS Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Low altitude operation/event Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The private pilot/owner and the student pilot/passenger departed in the amphibious airplane and flew to a local lake where they were observed conducting a touch-and-go landing and flying low over the water. One witness, who was on his boat dock about 100 yards from a set of energized powerlines that spanned the lake, reported that the airplane was flying level about 100 to 200 ft above the water toward the powerlines. As the airplane approached the powerlines, it appeared to take a sudden nose-down attitude before it impacted the powerlines. There was a large explosion and the airplane impacted the water. The collision also resulted in a electrical power outage to the surrounding community. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed impact signatures consistent with impact with the powerlines and no evidence of any mechanical deficiencies or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. Based on the witness’ observations, the pilot likely observed the powerlines and attempted to maneuver underneath them. The airplane then struck the powerlines, lost control, and impacted the lake.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from powerlines while maneuvering at a low altitude over water, which resulted in a collision and loss of control.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov