NTSB Factual Report

On July 6, 2004, at 1345 central daylight time, a Rockwell S-2R agricultural single-engine airplane, N8486V, was substantially damaged upon collision with power lines while maneuvering near Jonesville, Louisiana. The non-instrument rated commercial pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, sustained minor injuries. The airplane was owned and operated by the Wilmot Flying Service, Inc., of Wilmot, Arkansas. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 aerial application flight. The local flight was reported to have originated from a private airstrip near Wisner, Louisiana, at 1315.

The 13,000-hour pilot reported to the NTSB investigator-in-charge, that while spraying under a boll weevil eradication contract, the engine blower malfunctioned, resulting in a partial loss of engine power. The pilot added that he was only able to obtain a maximum of 29 inches of manifold pressure from the Pratt & Whitney R1340 radial engine with the throttle in the full-open position, so he elected to head for the nearest airport.

As the pilot initiated a turn toward the airport at the reduced power setting, the wire-cutter equipped airplane collided and cut a 1/2-inch power line which the pilot had not seen. The pilot managed to fly the airplane 5.5 miles to the Jonesville Airport, and landed without further incident.

Examination of the airplane by the pilot revealed structural damage to both wings, substantial damage to the cockpit area including the roll cage, as well as damage to the propeller, engine cowling and landing gear. The condition of the engine blower could not be established; however, the pilot reported unusually heavy oil streaks throughout the belly of the airplane.

A completed Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) was not received from either the pilot or operator.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the power lines.