Overview
On June 12, 2012, at 1520 Pacific daylight time, a Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II, registration N282MC, collided with a power line in East Wenatchee, Washington. The helicopter was owned by Reed Helicopters and operated by Dragonfly Aviation, LLC, through a contract with JR Helicopters, LLC, under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The helicopter sustained substantial damage. The commercial pilot sustained serious injuries and the pilot-rated passenger was fatally injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed.
Flight Details
According to the operator, the helicopter was on a 30-day contract to dry cherries, arranged through JR Helicopters. The operator reported that the helicopter was not equipped with dual controls. During a telephone interview, the pilot stated that the pilot-rated passenger was a newer employee who had come to watch the flying pilot work the orchard. The passenger asked to accompany on a flight. The flying pilot stated that it was not typical, but permissible, so he took the passenger on the accident flight to show him the ropes. The flying pilot did not recall the accident but noted that there was nothing wrong with the helicopter prior to lift off and transition to forward flight.
Witness Account
A witness living next to the orchard observed the helicopter flying in a southerly direction. As the helicopter made a steep left turn, the main rotor impacted a power line, and the helicopter descended into a tree.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident airframe and engine examination revealed rotation signatures on the fanwheel and clutch assemblies. The engine spark plugs were removed, showing normal wear signatures. Engine cylinder compression was established by covering the lower spark plug holes with a finger. Flight control continuity was established. The flight control servos were removed and appeared normal. The two hydraulic servos (actuators) were disassembled, and the hydraulic fluid was captured. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were found that would have precluded normal operation.