Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power transmission line.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The single-engine helicopter collided with a power line during an aerial application flight. The 9,212-hour commercial pilot lost control of the helicopter following the collision and the airplane impacted the ground. The pilot, who sustained minor injuries, was able to egress the helicopter unassisted. The pilot reported that prior to the collision with the power line, the reciprocating engine helicopter was operating normally, and added that he never saw the power line during the flight prior to impact.
Source record
Factual narrative
The single-engine helicopter collided with a power line during an aerial application flight. The 9,212-hour commercial pilot lost control of the helicopter following the collision and the airplane impacted the ground. The pilot, who sustained minor injuries, was able to egress the helicopter unassisted. The pilot reported that prior to the collision with the power line, the reciprocating engine helicopter was operating normally, and added that he never saw the power line during the flight prior to impact.