Amateur-built EAA Biplane B1 N6WC accident near Schuyler, Nebraska

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the wire due to his diverted attention resulting in in-flight collision with the wire. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to locate an emergency landing site.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that while trouble shooting a rough running engine the aircraft descended to an altitude 20 to 25 feet above the ground. The pilot maintained this altitude while gaining airspeed and struck an overhead cable resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. The pilot did not report changing course or seeking an adequate emergency landing site. An examination of the airframe revealed no anomalies. Witnesses reported seeing the accident airplane buzzing boaters and flying at a low altitude prior to impacting the wire.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DEN08LA120 for the full record.