On September 5, 2003, a Robinson R22 BETA (registration N2301F) was involved in an aviation accident near Argusville, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The altitude/clearance not maintained from transmission wire(s) by the pilot during an unknown phase of flight. The transmission wire(s) were a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercially piloted helicopter sustained substantial damage after impacting transmission lines during a personal flight. The accident was not reported and later discovered by the FAA.
Overview
A helicopter, owned and piloted a commercial pilot, was involved in an accident during a personal flight. The aircraft impacted transmission line(s), resulting in substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.
Discovery
The accident was not reported by the pilot. It was subsequently discovered by the Federal Aviation Administration on June 4, 2004.
Reporting
The National Transportation Safety Board did not receive a Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report from the pilot. The circumstances surrounding the failure to report remain unknown. The helicopter sustained substantial damage upon impact with the transmission lines.