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Casualties unknown

Helicopter strikes utility wires during drug eradication mission (N17SP)

Randolph, NY, US

On September 22, 1999, a Bell 206L-1 (registration N17SP) was involved in an aviation accident near Randolph, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to see and avoid utility wires while flying at low altitude in a valley environment toward the sun. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter conducting a drug eradication mission struck utility wires in a valley while flying toward the sun at low altitude, resulting in an accident.

What happened

The pilot was operating a helicopter on a mission to eradicate illegal drugs. During the flight, the aircraft was navigating through a valley environment. The pilot directed the aircraft toward the position of the sun, which likely contributed to visual challenges. At the time of the incident, the helicopter was flying at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level.

While maintaining this low altitude, the helicopter collided with utility wires. These wires were suspended between towers that were situated below the local tree line. The obstruction was not immediately obvious due to the terrain and lighting conditions.

The investigation

An examination of the relevant aeronautical charts revealed that the location of the utility wires was accurately depicted on the current Detroit Sectional Aeronautical Chart. Despite being charted, the wires presented a hazard during the specific flight conditions encountered by the pilot.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to see and avoid utility wires while flying at low altitude in a valley environment toward the sun.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Sept 1999 Bell 206L-1 accident near Randolph, NY?

A helicopter conducting a drug eradication mission struck utility wires in a valley while flying toward the sun at low altitude, resulting in an accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Sept 1999 involved a Bell 206L-1, registration N17SP, at Randolph, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to see and avoid utility wires while flying at low altitude in a valley environment toward the sun.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19853. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.