Accident Overview
During an aerial application maneuver, the pilot reported that he was attempting to clear some power lines when the engine lost power and rotor rpm dropped, resulting in a loss of control. The helicopter struck the ground sideways, then rolled over, causing the main rotor blades to strike the ground.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that as he tried to climb over the power lines to his left, the aircraft seemed to lose power and came back down on the right side. The blade struck the ground and the helicopter crashed. The pilot did not return the NTSB Form 6120.1/2, so his factual account of the accident is not known.
Aircraft Examination
An FAA examination of the wreckage revealed that fuel was present. According to the FAA inspector's report, the pilot lost control of the helicopter, and no discrepancies could be found with either the airframe or the engine.