Primary finding
Probable cause
Failure of the pilot to see wires and maintain clearance while flying at a low altitude.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was flying low while applying chemicals to a field. He completed spraying approximately half of the field, when he collided with wires that he did not see. He extricated himself from the helicopter, which subsequently caught fire.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 12, 2000, about 1538 hours Pacific standard time, a Bell 47G, N9763Z, sustained substantial damage after colliding with wires while maneuvering on an aerial application flight near Vacaville, California. North Coast Helicopters, Inc., operated the helicopter under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 137. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries. The helicopter was transported to the job site on a trailer and departed to dispense chemicals about 10 minutes prior to the mishap. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The pilot stated he was at a low altitude and completed spraying approximately half of the field. He did not see the wires prior to impact. He extricated himself from the helicopter, which subsequently caught fire.