Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines while maneuvering at low altitude.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, during a cherry drying flight, the helicopter climbed slowly over a small hill and then struck power lines on the other side of the hill. The helicopter subsequently made a "medium-hard" impact with a grassy area near the orchard. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the helicopter pilot, during a cherry drying flight, the helicopter climbed slowly over a small hill and struck powerline wires that were on the other side of the hill. The pilot landed the helicopter, but the landing was hard. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.