Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate visual lookout which resulted in the helicopter colliding with power lines, catching fire, and being consumed by fire after landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated he had a wire strike which he believes led to an in-flight fire. He landed the helicopter upright and fire consumed the helicopter.
Source record
Factual narrative
On September 1, 2000, about 0935 central daylight time, a Bell 47G-3B-1, N53SP, registered to an individual, crashed while on a Title 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The helicopter received substantial damage and the commercial-rated pilot received serious injuries. The flight originated from the local area about 0900. The pilot stated he had a wire strike which he believes led to an in-flight fire. The helicopter was subsequently landed standing upright. By this time the helicopter was engulfed in flames. He exited the helicopter and watched it burn.