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Casualties unknown

2002-06-27: Bell 206BIII (N2779B) — Aero West — Raton, NM

Raton, NM, US

On June 27, 2002, a Bell 206BIII (registration N2779B) operated by Aero West was involved in an aviation accident near Raton, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance of the static wire. Factors were the static wire, and the glaring sunlight condition. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter conducting a power line inspection patrol struck power lines. The mission was flown at 40-50 knots, with the main rotor a few feet above the highest wire. The accident occurred at 0758 with the sun at 24° altitude and azimuth 78°.

Accident Overview

A helicopter struck power lines while performing a power line inspection patrol for possible maintenance needs. The aircraft was operating at an airspeed of 40 to 50 knots, positioned on the right side of the wires, with the main rotor maintained a "few" feet above the highest wire, without overlapping the wire. This arrangement allowed the observer, seated in the left seat, an optimum view of the lines.

Mission Details

The inspection involved a set of two 3/8-inch diameter galvanized steel static cables (without associated transmission wires) that joined the northbound galvanized steel static cables (with associated transmission cables) at a 30-degree angle.

Environmental Conditions

The accident occurred at 0758. At that time, the sun was at an altitude of approximately 24 degrees above the horizon, with an azimuth of 78 degrees east of north. There were no clouds in the sky.

Report Modification

This report was modified on November 21, 2005.

Related events

Same operator

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020708X01056. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.