Accident Details
A pilot was conducting an agricultural spraying operation over a drainage ditch when he encountered a railroad track embankment. He increased altitude to clear the tracks, then descended back into the ditch on the opposite side to continue spraying. While maneuvering, he observed power lines in his flight path. Despite an attempt to avoid them, the helicopter's left landing skid struck the lines.
Impact and Damage
The helicopter subsequently impacted an adjacent corn field approximately 250 feet from the power lines. The pilot sustained serious injuries. The helicopter suffered substantial damage to the fuselage and tailboom.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no failures or malfunctions related to the helicopter prior to the accident.