What happened
The pilot was conducting logging operations in steeply sloped, tree-covered mountainous terrain. The operation utilized a 200-foot-long line to retrieve logs from the ground. Witnesses observed the rotorcraft hovering at treetop level while attempting to pick up a log. During this maneuver, the right rotor blades began contacting the treetops. The rotorcraft subsequently rolled and descended to impact the ground.
The investigation
Witnesses provided observations of the accident sequence. The rotorcraft was operating in difficult terrain with significant slope and dense vegetation. The use of a long line for logging operations required precise control near the canopy level.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the contact between the right rotor blades and the treetops during the hover. The steep, tree-covered mountainous terrain limited maneuvering space. The 200-foot-long line extended the operational radius but required the aircraft to remain close to the canopy for log retrieval.
Safety message
Operations in steep, tree-covered terrain require careful attention to rotor clearance. Hovering near treetops presents significant hazards to rotor blades. Pilots must maintain awareness of surrounding obstacles when using long-line equipment.