Taylorcraft BC12 N95514 accident near Cut Bank, Montana

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to see and avoid power wires while maneuvering at low altitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s inability to determine the airplane’s altitude due to sun glare.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while flying west to check some fields and circle a friend's house, he began a right, descending turn about 200 ft above ground level. He added that he was aware of power wires in the area, but the sun was in his eyes, and the airplane was lower than he thought. The airplane struck power wires and then impacted terrain.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA533 for the full record.