Incident Details
On November 15, 2012, at approximately 0700 mountain standard time, a Bell 407 helicopter, registration N7160V, struck high tension power lines while in cruise flight near Riverton, Wyoming. The aircraft was registered to Classic Medical Inc. and operated by Classic Helicopter Group, LLC under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135. The flight originated at 0633 from Wyoming Medical Center Heliport (WY57) in Casper, Wyoming, with a planned destination of Riverton Regional Airport (RIW) in Riverton. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a company visual flight rules flight plan was filed.
Crew Statements
The helicopter was crewed by an airline transport pilot and two medical crew members, none of whom sustained injuries. One medical crew member reported that ambient lighting conditions were good and that no night vision goggles were in use. The pilot stated that he did not observe the wires until after the initial impact and was able to land the helicopter off airport without further incident. Another medical crew member, seated in the front left seat, observed the wires but did not have sufficient time to warn the pilot before the strike.
Inspection Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the helicopter and found that the main rotor blades, tail rotor, and swashplate had sustained minor damage.
Company Investigation
A subsequent investigation by the company revealed that the pilot was flying the helicopter at en route altitudes of approximately 80–100 feet above ground level. Company Operations Specifications (OPSEC) require a minimum altitude of 300 feet above terrain and obstacles during day operations.