What happened
The aircraft was engaged in an aerial application mission when it collided with overhead power lines and subsequently impacted the ground. The pilot reported that he was actively spraying ditches at the time of the incident. During this operation, his attention was momentarily diverted from the flight path to focus on the brush vegetation he was treating.
The pilot later stated that he had become complacent regarding the presence of wires located along the roadside. Upon realizing the proximity of the power lines, he attempted to lower the collective pitch to fly beneath them. However, the helicopter struck the power lines before it could clear the obstruction and then hit the ground.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational context of the aerial application flight. Examination of the pilot's account revealed that the collision was not caused by mechanical failure but by situational awareness issues during a low-level operation. The pilot acknowledged that his focus had shifted from navigation to the spraying task, leading to a delayed reaction to the overhead hazard.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident included the pilot's momentary loss of situational awareness and subsequent complacency regarding roadside infrastructure. The decision to lower the collective in an attempt to clear the wires occurred too late to prevent impact. Aerial application operations require constant vigilance for environmental hazards, particularly when operating near utility lines. The incident highlights the risks associated with divided attention during low-altitude flight phases.
Safety message
Pilots conducting aerial application must maintain strict situational awareness of their surroundings, especially regarding overhead obstacles like power lines. Diverting attention to the spraying target should never compromise navigation safety. Maintaining constant vigilance is critical to avoiding collisions with static hazards during low-level operations.