Primary finding
Probable cause
An impact with a powerline as a result of an unexpected wind gust.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during an aerial application flight in a helicopter, he experienced a gust of wind that caused the nose of the helicopter to dip and lose altitude, which resulted in an impact with a powerline and substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.