Incident Description
During an aerial animal capture operation, a helicopter hovered approximately 15 feet above ground level over an elk. The pilot maneuvered the helicopter to position a gunner for firing, then instructed the gunner to prepare. When ready, the gunner discharged the net. Immediately after the shot, a loud bang was heard, and the helicopter began to vibrate. The pilot performed a landing without further incident.
Post-Flight Inspection
After the main rotor blades had stopped turning, an examination revealed that one blade had a hole on its leading edge, exposing the spar. Additional holes were found on the back of the same blade, about two inches from the trailing edge.
Examination of the Net
The discharged net was examined. It was noted that one of the net weights from one of its four corners was missing, having separated from the attaching material. The weight was later recovered approximately 300 feet from the net. It displayed impact damage and was slightly bent.