Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from power lines during low-level operations in light rain conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was maneuvering the helicopter at low altitude over a cherry field in light rain conditions. As he air taxied about 30 ft above the ground and about 15 knots, the helicopter struck a power line and landed inverted on a tractor. The helicopter was destroyed by the postcrash fire. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.