Wirestrike involving a Cessna 172M, VH-EYR, 17 km west of Wagin, Western Australia, on 26 March 1993

The pilot, returning to his home base, decided to conduct an inspection of the paddocks around a property with which he was familiar. He completed two higher level circuits before selecting a suitable landing area. He had noted wires along the edge of the chosen paddock and elected to conduct an approach and a low-level inspection. After satisfying himself that the approach and landing area were suitable, the pilot commenced a missed approach with the intention of continuing the flight to his destination. He planned to return by car to inspect the paddock at ground level for suitability at a later date. As the pilot applied power, the landing gear caught on a wire across the paddock. The wire, which had a span of 400 metres, did not break immediately and the aircraft was pulled to the ground.

During the low level inspection, the pilot had removed his shoulder harness so that he would have a better view of the edges of the paddock as he flew along it. In the ensuing impact, he suffered serious injuries which were considered to have been potentially fatal, because of the lack of upper body restraint.