Accident Overview
On the early evening at 1840, a commercial helicopter pilot with 430 total flight hours was attempting to depart an uncontrolled airport. The pilot departed from the parking apron on an easterly heading, rather than hover-taxiing to the parallel taxiway and runway. Witnesses reported that the pilot flew between two ramp light fixtures, which were 35 feet tall and spaced 150 feet apart. The helicopter subsequently collided with unmarked power lines located outside the airport perimeter.
Impact and Wreckage
The power lines were 32 feet high and situated 220 feet from the airport parking apron. Following the collision, the pilot lost control of the helicopter, which impacted the ground. A post-impact fire consumed most of the helicopter. Examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies, and the maintenance records provided showed no discrepancies. The pilot's flight logbook was not made available to investigators.
Airport and Weather Conditions
The uncontrolled airport has a single runway aligned 140/320 degrees and offers Unicom services. At the time of the accident, the wind was reported from 190 degrees at 10 knots, with visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Several witnesses observed the event and provided written statements.