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Casualties unknown

Helicopter Collides with Power Line During Agricultural Spraying (N5374V)

Castroville, CA, US

On October 28, 1999, a Hiller UH-12E (registration N5374V) was involved in an aviation accident near Castroville, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate visual lookout and diverted attention. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter struck a power line while the pilot diverted attention to a GPS receiver during low-altitude spraying operations, resulting in a loss of control and impact with the field.

Accident Overview

According to the official investigation, the pilot was engaged in agricultural spraying operations. While flying between 25 and 30 feet above the ground, the pilot altered course to avoid telephone repair personnel working on a pole near the intended spray field. During this maneuver, the pilot diverted attention toward the global positioning satellite (GPS) receiver, intending to mark a new spray position.

Collision and Impact

As the helicopter proceeded over the field, the pilot looked up and observed a power line directly ahead. With insufficient time to turn, the helicopter collided with the power line. Subsequently, the pilot lost control, and the helicopter impacted the underlying field.

No Additional Details

The source does not specify the helicopter type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, number of occupants, injuries, or damage. No analysis or causal factors beyond the described sequence are provided.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Oct 1999 Hiller UH-12E accident near Castroville, CA?

A helicopter struck a power line while the pilot diverted attention to a GPS receiver during low-altitude spraying operations, resulting in a loss of control and impact with the field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Oct 1999 involved a Hiller UH-12E, registration N5374V, at Castroville, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate visual lookout and diverted attention.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19999. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.