Accident Summary
The helicopter was in cruise flight at 400 feet above ground level (AGL) when the pilot was looking for a bridge crossing a river. The pilot stated that he did not maintain a visual lookout and was not familiar with the area. The helicopter subsequently collided with an overhead ground wire near Black Water Creek, in the vicinity of Alabama Power Structure 51 and 52. Despite the collision, the pilot maintained control of the helicopter and flew it to his house, where he landed.
Examination
Examination of the accident site revealed that the helicopter struck an overhead ground wire. The aircraft sustained structural damage to the nose, windscreen, lower chin bubble, overhead window, left door post, and cabin roof. According to the pilot, the helicopter had no mechanical problems before the collision.
Injuries and Aftermath
After landing at his house, the pilot called an employee on a cell phone. The employee met the pilot at his residence and transported him to a local area hospital. The pilot's right middle finger was amputated due to injuries sustained during the wire strike. The passenger was not injured.