Casualties unknown

Helicopter Collides with Power Line During Aerial Application (N7060J)

Greenfield, CA, US

On September 13, 2003, a Bell 47G-5 (registration N7060J) operated by Soilserv Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Greenfield, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the wires due to an inadequate visual lookout. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A helicopter conducting an aerial application descended into a power line, causing the wire to wrap around the mast and control linkages. The pilot lost control and the helicopter struck the ground.

Incident Overview

During an aerial application operation, a helicopter collided with power lines. The pilot was maneuvering the helicopter as it lined up in the corner of a lot. While doing so, the helicopter descended into a wire.

Sequence of Events

The wire became entangled around the helicopter's mast and control linkages. Subsequently, the helicopter began to pitch in an unusual manner. The pilot attempted to level off, but the controls were unresponsive. The helicopter then collided with the ground.

Operational Context

The helicopter was being used for aerial application, a common agricultural practice. No further details about the specific operation, aircraft type, or location are provided in the source.

Consequences

The source does not specify injuries, damage extent, or fatalities. It only records the collision with the ground following the loss of control due to wire entanglement.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Sept 2003 Bell 47G-5 accident near Greenfield, CA?

A helicopter conducting an aerial application descended into a power line, causing the wire to wrap around the mast and control linkages. The pilot lost control and the helicopter struck the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Sept 2003 involved a Bell 47G-5, registration N7060J, operated by Soilserv Inc, at Greenfield, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the wires due to an inadequate visual lookout.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031124X01943. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.