Amateur-built AEROSPORT SCAMP WTB1 N25WS accident near Grantham, North Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate clearance from unmarked power lines while on approach to land at a private airport.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he had completed two approaches to the private grass airstrip without incident. During the third approach, the airplane struck unmarked power lines located just prior to the approach end of the runway. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground and sustained substantial damage to the underside of its fuselage, rudder and both wings. The pilot stated that he did not experience any mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. The runway previously had a marked, 670-foot displaced threshold to compensate for the power lines. The airport manager reported that the displaced threshold markings were made of wood and had deteriorated over a period of years.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA043 for the full record.