On March 24, 2009, a ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA operated by American Helicopters was involved in an aviation accident near Chowchilla, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power lines. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A helicopter conducting frost control struck power lines during a low-altitude pass over an agricultural field at dawn, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and rotor system.
Event Summary
At dawn, a helicopter was flying over an agricultural field to perform frost control. The pilot flew three passes at low altitude to distribute warm air onto the crops. During these passes, he observed power lines in the vicinity.
Flight Details
On the fourth pass, the pilot descended to about 50 feet above ground level and lost sight of the power lines. Concerned about a potential collision, he initiated a right turn. Halfway through the turn, the main rotor blades struck the power lines. The helicopter then descended to the ground.
Aftermath
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and rotor system. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures.
Contributing factors
Response/compensationPilot
Related events
Same aircraft family
13 Sep 2026 — ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II (Chop Air LLC)
16 Jul 2026 — ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II (D&p LLC)
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Mar 2009 ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA accident near Chowchilla, CA?
A helicopter conducting frost control struck power lines during a low-altitude pass over an agricultural field at dawn, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and rotor system.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Mar 2009 ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Mar 2009 involved a ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA, operated by American Helicopters, at Chowchilla, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power lines.
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