On September 18, 1989, a Hughes 269A (registration N8134Y) operated by Government OF Guam was involved in an aviation accident near Agana. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with a power line during low-altitude flight in a valley, attributed to the pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter operating a visual reconnaissance mission for law enforcement collided with a power line while flying low along the Fonte River, resulting in a crash in dense jungle terrain.
What happened
The helicopter was conducting a visual reconnaissance and orientation flight carrying a pilot and a police agent. While navigating through a valley at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above the Fonte River, the aircraft struck a power line that crossed the waterway. The impact caused the main rotor system to separate from the airframe, leading to a crash in dense jungle terrain nearby.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage and available evidence revealed no pre-impact mechanical problems with the helicopter. The separation of the main rotor system was consistent with the forces generated by the collision with the power line.
Probable cause
Collision with a power line during low-altitude flight in a valley, attributed to the pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance.
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