Probable cause
The pilot's improper decision to conduct low-level flight along a river, which resulted in a collision with power lines.
NTSB analysis
Witnesses observed the accident airplane flying low along a river. A witness located near the accident site reported that the airplane struck power lines suspended above the river. The airplane subsequently impacted a sandbar along the river. The postaccident examination of the airplane did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction. Toxicological testing revealed the presence of a medication commonly prescribed for depressive illness. In addition, the pilot had been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. However, it was not possible to determine the level of medication present or the extent that fatigue might have affected the pilot, if at all, during the accident flight.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA569 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 13, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Madrid, Iowa
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Fairchild M-62
- N-number
- N53956
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.