Accident Details
A pilot reported that he was departing from an aerial application operating area. The pilot stated there was a tree line along a road with an opening, and the takeoff was made toward that opening. Wires were strung across the opening, but the poles supporting them were obscured by trees on either side. The pilot did not see the wires and collided with them during the departure.
Sequence of Events
As a result of the collision with the wires, tail rotor control was lost. The aircraft subsequently crashed to the ground.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot's report, the tree line along the road had an opening that he aimed for during takeoff. The wires across that opening were not visible because the poles were hidden by the surrounding trees. The pilot did not mention any other factors contributing to the accident.