Accident Overview
During a night flight, a helicopter experienced a wire strike while attempting to avoid obstacles. The pilot subsequently executed a precautionary landing to a large field, during which the helicopter rolled over and came to rest on its right side.
Flight Details
With winds from the south at 10-15 knots, the helicopter departed to the north. The pilot reported difficulty maintaining the helicopter in a climb attitude. While making a right turn to avoid trees and houses, the pilot observed wires. He attempted to climb to clear the wires, but the top wire was struck by the bottom aft portion of the left skid.
Precautionary Landing and Rollover
During the night precautionary landing to a large field, the pilot determined that he had stabilized the helicopter on an east heading and that forward movement was stopped. However, during touchdown with lateral movement, the helicopter rolled over and came to rest on its right side.
Weight and Pilot Currency
At the time of the accident, the helicopter was at an estimated gross weight of 4,120 pounds. The maximum allowable gross weight was 4,150 pounds. The pilot's currency for carrying passengers at night had expired on March 11, 1995.
Post-Accident Engine Test
After the accident, a successful engine run was accomplished in a test cell.