On 2006-04-19, Skylune wrote:
I wonder if a collision with a kite is an FAA reportable incident. And,
would that then constitute sufficient proof of illegal low flying?

Like anything, it depends.

The notification requirement would be covered by NTSB 830 rather than
the FAA's regs. NTSB 830 says that it would be reportable, if:

(a) An aircraft accident or any of the following listed incidents
occur:
(1) Flight control system malfunction or failure;
(2) Inability of any required flight crewmember to perform
normal
flight duties as a result of injury or illness;
(3) Failure of structural components of a turbine engine
excluding
compressor and turbine blades and vanes;
(4) In-flight fire; or
(5) Aircraft collide in flight.
(6) Damage to property, other than the
aircraft, estimated to exceed
$25,000 for repair (including materials and
labor) or fair market value
in the event of total loss, whichever is
less.

Since a kite is not an aircraft, straight off the bat, it's not a
collision with another aircraft. If the collision with the kite causes
any of the other things listed above, then yes - it'll be reportable. If
it results in a bit of broken string, scratched paintwork and soiled
underwear, then no, it's not reportable.

As for the proof of illegal flying, this depends on:
- how long was the kite string? If it was over 500 feet, and the
aircraft was in an uncongested area, then no it wouldn't (and the kite
flyer may be in trouble).
- Was the aircraft approaching for landing or departing for takeoff? In
which case, no again.

Of course, if the string was 100 feet long and the plane wasn't taking
off or landing, then I'm sure the FAA could easily nail the pilot.

Basically - your second question can't be given a straight yes or no -
it depends on the circumstances.

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