Probable cause
The pilot failed to maintain clearance from high tension wires while maneuvering at low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while maneuvering the airplane at low altitude to observe sculptures on the ground, he did not see the high-tension wires due to diverted attention and the setting sun. The airplane collided with the wires, the vertical stabilizer sheared off, and the engine seized. Subsequently, the airplane impacted terrain. The empennage and left wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operations.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA058 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 3, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Regent, North Dakota
- Nearest airport
- (n/a)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 3
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Stinson 108-3
- N-number
- N7659X
- 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.