On June 22, 1990, a Bell 47D1 (registration N310A) was involved in an aviation accident near Meadville, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO SEE AND AVOID THE POWER LINES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aerial application helicopter struck power lines shortly after takeoff from a staging area and fell to the ground. Investigation found no pre-impact mechanical malfunction.
Incident
An aerial application helicopter was involved in an accident after departing from a staging area to spray another field. The pilot had previously landed to replenish the spray system. Shortly after takeoff, the helicopter struck power lines and fell to the ground.
Investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed control continuity throughout the system. Investigators found no evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunction or difficulty.
Witness Statement
The owner of the farm being sprayed stated that the pilot had been spraying his fields for twenty years and should have known the location of the power lines strung across the field.
What happened in the 22 Jun 1990 Bell 47D1 accident near Meadville, PA?
An aerial application helicopter struck power lines shortly after takeoff from a staging area and fell to the ground. Investigation found no pre-impact mechanical malfunction.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jun 1990 involved a Bell 47D1, registration N310A, at Meadville, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO SEE AND AVOID THE POWER LINES.
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