Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from transmission wires while maneuvering at a low altitude during an agricultural application flight.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, while maneuvering at a low altitude during an agricultural application flight, he "forgot to duck" for some nearby transmission wires. The tail rotor struck the transmission wires, and the helicopter impacted terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, while maneuvering at a low altitude during an aerial application flight, he "forgot to duck" for some nearby transmission wires. The tail rotor struck the transmission wires and the helicopter impacted terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.