Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power lines during the aerial application flight. The power lines were a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The helicopter impacted power lines and the ground during an aerial application flight. The pilot reported that he was spraying ditches and his attention was diverted momentarily to the brush that he was spraying. He stated that he was complacent with regard to the wires at the roadside and that when he saw them he lowered the collective in an attempt to fly beneath the wires. He stated that the helicopter struck the power lines and then subsequently hit the ground.
Source record
Factual narrative
The helicopter impacted power lines and the ground during an aerial application flight. The pilot reported that he was spraying ditches and his attention was diverted momentarily to the brush that he was spraying. He stated that he was complacent with regard to the wires at the roadside and that when he saw them he lowered the collective in an attempt to fly beneath the wires. He stated that the helicopter struck the power lines and then subsequently hit the ground.