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Helicopter Strikes Power Line, Lands with High Speed After Engine RPM Issue (N80584)

Metter, GA, US

On May 6, 2000, a Hiller UH-12C (registration N80584) was involved in an aviation accident near Metter, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate lookout resulting in a collision with a transmission wire that resulted in a forced landing and substantial damage to the helicopter. 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 pilot reported striking a power line, destroying the glass bubble, then experiencing uncontrolled high engine RPM during landing, resulting in substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during a flight, his helicopter struck a power line. The impact destroyed the glass bubble of the aircraft. Believing that the damage was limited to the bubble, the pilot attempted to return to the departure airport.

Landing Difficulties

As the helicopter approached the airport for landing, the pilot encountered a control problem with the engine. The engine RPM became stuck on a high setting, preventing him from performing a normal autorotation. Consequently, the pilot landed the helicopter with both high vertical and forward speeds.

Damage Assessment

The helicopter sustained substantial damage during the landing. No other details regarding the aircraft type, registration, location, or injuries were provided in the account.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 May 2000 Hiller UH-12C accident near Metter, GA?

A pilot reported striking a power line, destroying the glass bubble, then experiencing uncontrolled high engine RPM during landing, resulting in substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 May 2000 Hiller UH-12C accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 May 2000 involved a Hiller UH-12C, registration N80584, at Metter, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate lookout resulting in a collision with a transmission wire that resulted in a forced landing and substantial damage to the helicopter.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21062. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.