Incident Overview
A helicopter collided with trees and the ground following an in-flight loss of control while conducting an aerial spraying operation. The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to spray a fungicide on several tree orchards in the area.
Flight Sequence
After traveling approximately 3 miles, the pilot reached the orchard to be treated and slowed the helicopter. He initiated a descending left turn. During the turn, the flight controls locked, and the pilot thought the helicopter was experiencing a hydraulic failure.
Pilot Actions
The pilot maneuvered the helicopter to avoid power lines and attempted to regain control. He turned the hydraulic system off and manipulated the cyclic in an effort to obtain level flight. The helicopter subsequently impacted trees.
Post-Accident Examination
A follow-up examination of the helicopter by Federal Aviation Administration inspectors and a technical representative from the helicopter's manufacturer revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the helicopter in general and the hydraulic control system in particular.