FTW99LA114

The airplane struck power lines while maneuvering at a low altitude near the destination airport. The pilot was able to control the aircraft, continued the flight and landed without further incident. The non-instrument rated private pilot had returned to flying after a number of years away from aviation, and he had accumulated approximately 20 hours in the aircraft during the previous 90 days. He said that IFR conditions with low clouds, thunderstorms and rain showers developed while he was en route, and he was forced to descend to a lower altitude. Clear skies with visibility greater than 10 miles were reported throughout the area at the time of the flight.

On April 6, 1999, at 1000 central daylight time, a Cessna 172N airplane, N734SV, was substantially damaged upon impact with power lines while maneuvering near Cleburne, Texas. The airplane was owned and operated by Panther Aviation, Inc., of Cleburne, Texas, under 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91. The non-instrument rated private pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed during the personal cross country flight. A flight plan was not filed. The flight departed from Hillsboro, Texas, at approximately 0930.

The operator reported to the FAA inspector that the non-instrument rated private pilot returned to flying after a number of years away from aviation. He had accumulated approximately 20 hours in the aircraft during the previous 90 days and had rented the airplane.

The pilot reported to the FAA inspector that he had planned a VFR flight and did not file a flight plan. He further stated that IFR conditions with low clouds, thunderstorms and rain showers developed while he was en route, forcing him to descend. While maneuvering at low altitude, the airplane struck power lines. The pilot was able to control the aircraft, continued the flight and landed without further incident at the Cleburne Municipal Airport.

According to the FAA inspector, the airplane's vertical stabilizer and rudder were damaged. The right wing was wrinkled.

Clear skies with visibility greater than 10 miles were reported by the surface weather observation stations throughout the area at the time of the flight. Surface winds were reported from the east southeast at 3 to 9 knots. There was no record found that the pilot obtained a weather briefing.

Numerous attempts were made by the investigator-in-charge to obtain a completed Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2). To date, the report has not been submitted.