Accident Sequence
A pilot conducting nighttime agricultural spraying reported that he had just finished spraying a field. While transitioning to the next field, the helicopter climbed and struck high-tension electrical wires. The pilot felt the impact and realized a crash was imminent. He reported that the helicopter went out of control, and he was temporarily blinded by the flash from the electrical wires. After regaining his eyesight, he observed the helicopter rolling to the right and flying in a curved trajectory. Approximately two to three seconds later, the helicopter impacted the ground.
Pilot Actions
Following the impact, the pilot unbuckled his seatbelt and exited the helicopter. He noted that the engine was still running and that he continued to experience some blindness. After walking a few steps away, his vision cleared. He looked back at the helicopter to confirm there was no fire, then returned to the aircraft and shut down the engine.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical problems with the helicopter. He further indicated that he had been spraying in the area for years and was aware of the presence of the power lines. The National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge interviewed the pilot, who reiterated these points.