On May 24, 1983, a Hiller UH-12E (registration N3GK) was involved in an aviation accident near Troy, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from powerlines while surveying a field for future spraying operations. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter pilot struck overhead powerlines while surveying a field for future spraying operations, causing the skids to catch wires and drag them before he escaped the burning wreckage.
What happened
The aircraft collided with a powerline while the pilot was locating a field to spray at a later date. The pilot saw telephone lines and flew over them but hit the powerlines which were 20 feet higher. The skids caught the wires and the helicopter nosed down, dragging the lines 110 feet beyond the wire impact. The pilot managed to free himself before the fire consumed the helicopter.
The investigation
The investigation examined the physical evidence at the crash site, specifically noting that the powerlines were dragged 110 feet beyond the initial impact point. The mechanical failure was attributed to the skids catching the wires, which caused the helicopter to nose down.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from powerlines while surveying a field for future spraying operations.
What happened in the 24 May 1983 Hiller UH-12E accident near Troy, KS?
A helicopter pilot struck overhead powerlines while surveying a field for future spraying operations, causing the skids to catch wires and drag them before he escaped the burning wreckage.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 May 1983 Hiller UH-12E accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 May 1983 involved a Hiller UH-12E, registration N3GK, at Troy, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from powerlines while surveying a field for future spraying operations.
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