Accident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) was conducting primary flight training with a pre-solo student. After departing from Van Nuys Airport, the CFI flew to the Santa Clara River practice area. During an undetermined phase of flight over the dry river bed, the helicopter impacted power lines that were suspended from poles located north and south of the river bed.
Accident Details
Following the impact with the power lines, the helicopter descended approximately 40 feet before striking the ground on its right side. The student, seated in the right seat, was fatally injured. The CFI's condition was not specified in the report.
Subsequent examination of the helicopter's airframe and engine assembly revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction. Wire mark striations were observed on one main rotor blade, consistent with the power line strike.
Post-Accident Actions
After the accident, the operator (a flight school) issued instructions to its employees regarding the locations where off-airport flight training was authorized. The accident site area was specifically excluded from the authorized training area.