Cessna 172 N46204 accident near Anthony, New Mexico

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a cable while maneuvering at a low altitude over water, which resulted in a collision with a cable and impact with water.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he wanted to "fly the river" on the return leg of a cross country flight. He further reported that he was going to fly at a lower altitude over the river, but before doing so, he did a low reconnaissance pass to look for people and objects. After he determined that the area was "safe", the pilot entered low altitude flight above the river. Subsequently, the airplane struck a cable that spanned the river cutting the aircraft in half, the aircraft then impacted the river and incurred substantial damage to the fuselage and wings.

The pilot reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA333 for the full record.