Amateur-built HARMON ROCKET II N729PS accident near Cheraw, South Carolina

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to fly at low altitude, which resulted in a collision with power lines.

NTSB analysis

The airline transport pilot was conducting a local flight in his experimental, amateur-built airplane. Several witnesses observed, and GPS data confirmed, that the accident airplane flew a significant portion of the 38-minute flight at low altitude, at least twice flying as low as 50 ft above ground level. The airplane subsequently collided with power lines that spanned the river.

Examination of the wreckage and review of engine monitor data did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. Toxicology testing of the pilot revealed the presence of a muscle relaxant with potential mental and physical impairing side effects; however, the levels of the drug or its effect on the pilot's decision-making could not be determined based on the available information.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA16LA139 for the full record.