On December 6, 1998, a Robinson R-22B (registration N2304W) operated by Classic Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Carnation, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with a wire. Related factors were the pilot's performance of a low pass, a transmission wire, and difficulty encountered by the pilot in detecting the wire visually. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported striking a wire about 50 feet above ground during a low pass over a relative's farm. The helicopter shook violently and made a forced landing in shallow water.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while conducting a low pass over a relative's farm, the helicopter struck a wire located approximately 50 feet above ground level. The pilot stated that a combination of clouds and the sun made the wires 'virtually invisible' until the moment of impact.
Sequence of Events
Following the wire strike, the helicopter began to shake violently. The pilot initiated a forced landing. During the forced landing, the helicopter landed hard in approximately two feet of water.
Pilot Report
The pilot noted that the wires were not visible due to the clouds and sun, making them effectively invisible until the helicopter struck them. No other details about the flight or conditions were provided.
What happened in the 6 Dec 1998 Robinson R-22B accident near Carnation, WA?
A pilot reported striking a wire about 50 feet above ground during a low pass over a relative's farm. The helicopter shook violently and made a forced landing in shallow water.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Dec 1998 involved a Robinson R-22B, registration N2304W, operated by Classic Helicopters, at Carnation, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with a wire. Related factors were the pilot's performance of a low pass, a transmission wire, and difficulty encountered by the pilot in detecting the wire visually.
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