Incident Overview
A helicopter was being used in the construction of electrical transmission lines. On an earlier flight, a 150-foot longline cable had been utilized for lifting external loads. However, on the flight in question, there was no reason for the longline to be attached, as passengers were being transported in conjunction with their construction and inspection duties.
Sequence of Events
The helicopter took off with the longline attached and without any external load. After takeoff, the helicopter moved forward approximately 200 feet to a treeline. It then began a left turn, heading away from Tower 51 where the takeoff was initiated, toward a point where one of the passengers was to be discharged. As the helicopter flew over the trees, the longline became entangled in the trees.
Outcome
The entanglement occurred without any stated further consequences. No additional details about damage, injuries, or subsequent actions were provided in the source material.