NTSB Factual Report

On August 28, 2004, approximately 0945 central daylight time, a Boeing A75, N86600, sustained substantial damage when it hit a wire over the Wisconsin River near Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, and subsequently impacted the water. The private pilot received minor injuries, and the passenger received fatal injuries. The 14 CFR Part 91 flight departed from the Alexander Field South Wood County Airport (ISW), Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, about 0930 and was giving rides to people who were at the airport. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. No flight plan was filed.

The pilot reported that he had given three people free rides prior to the accident flight. He reported that the passenger on the accident flight had requested an aerobatic flight. He reported that they both were wearing parachutes so he departed ISW to the west. He climbed to 3,000 feet above ground level (agl), and flew aerobatic maneuvers, which included 1 Cuban eight, 1 loop, and 2 hammerhead stalls. He reported that he proceeded to the south, and then he proceeded to fly north over the Wisconsin River back to ISW. He reported that he was flying approximately 40-50 feet above the river. He reported, "Just as I was to initiate a climb I struck power lines crossing the river. I noticed the power lines not more that 1/2 second before impact." The main landing gear struck the power lines and the airplane landed inverted in the river in about 3-4 feet of water.

The pilot reported that he had flown the river going south from ISW "many times." He reported that he was not where he thought he was when the accident occurred. He reported that he thought he was 4 miles south of his location.

He reported that the airplane did not have a mechanical malfunction.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper in-flight decision when he decided to fly at a low altitude over the river and failed to maintain clearance from the power lines. A factor was the wires.