On December 23, 2002, a Robinson R22 BETA (registration N888KB) was involved in an aviation accident near Dolan Springs, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate visual lookout and failure to maintain clearance from power lines. A factor was the pilot's decision to conduct cruise flight at a low altitude. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter struck power transmission lines while flying low over a highway, then rolled and impacted desert terrain, coming to rest beside the road.
Incident Overview
A helicopter was involved in a collision with power transmission lines while conducting a low-altitude flight over a highway. According to witness accounts, the helicopter was observed flying at a very low altitude above the roadway. The aircraft's skids made contact with power lines that ran perpendicular to the highway. Following the impact, the helicopter rolled onto its side and descended to the ground.
Sequence of Events
Multiple witnesses reported seeing the helicopter flying low over the highway. They noted that the helicopter's skids struck the power lines crossing the road. After the collision, the helicopter rolled to its side and fell, ultimately impacting the terrain. The aircraft came to rest on the side of the highway.
Terrain and Infrastructure
The incident occurred over desert terrain adjacent to the highway. Local regulations require that wires and cables in the area maintain a minimum clearance of 30 feet above ground level.