Casualties unknown

2007-07-11: Bell 47G-2A (N7878) — Hendrickson Flying Service — Mercedes, TX

Mercedes, TX, US

On July 11, 2007, a Bell 47G-2A (registration N7878) operated by Hendrickson Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Mercedes, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power transmission line. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine helicopter collided with a power line while conducting aerial application. The commercial pilot, with 9,212 hours of experience, sustained minor injuries and exited the aircraft unaided. The pilot reported not seeing the power line before impact.

Accident Overview

A single-engine helicopter, engaged in an aerial application flight, collided with a power line. Following the collision, the pilot lost control of the helicopter, which subsequently impacted the ground. The pilot, a commercial pilot with 9,212 total flight hours, received minor injuries and was able to egress the helicopter without assistance.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that prior to the power line strike, the helicopter's reciprocating engine was operating normally. He added that he did not see the power line at any point during the flight before the collision.

Investigation Details

The accident occurred during an aerial application operation. The helicopter was a single-engine aircraft. The pilot's account indicates no mechanical anomalies before the power line contact. The investigation is ongoing to document the circumstances of the event.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070809X01160. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.