Probable cause
The pilot's failure to monitor the environment and to maintain sufficient altitude to clear power lines during low altitude flight.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was flying his weight-shift control trike at low altitude when it struck power lines. Subsequently, the trike descended to the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the structural tubing. The pilot further stated that his smoke colored visor attached to his helmet prevented him from clearly seeing the power lines. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA255 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 20, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Caldwell, Idaho
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
PHASE II 582
- N-number
- N234BS
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.