Accident Overview
A commercial pilot was landing an agricultural helicopter at the edge of a large open bean field to retrieve communications radios from ground crew members. During the approach, the pilot observed a vehicle approaching the landing area that had not been present earlier.
Sequence of Events
The pilot elected to raise the helicopter to allow the vehicle to pass underneath. While ascending, the tail rotor blades struck a wire located approximately 20 feet above the ground. The helicopter then began to spin. The pilot reported losing control, and the helicopter subsequently struck the surface of the bean field and rolled onto its side.
Aftermath
There was no post-crash fire; however, the helicopter sustained substantial damage. The pilot received serious injuries and was airlifted by a helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) aircraft to a nearby hospital for treatment.