Incident Overview
A pilot performing an aerial application flight reported that after completing a high reconnaissance, he began a descent toward the intended application area. During the maneuver, his attention was divided between visually acquiring the target area and monitoring a digital map mounted in the cockpit. He descended below a tree line into the area while still attempting to compare the crop field to the map display, later stating that he was not looking outside the aircraft as diligently as required.
Collision with Powerlines
When the pilot redirected his attention outside, he observed powerline wires at eye level. He immediately lowered the collective and applied forward cyclic, but the main rotor mast contacted the wires. The helicopter subsequently landed in the field without further incident.
Damage
The main rotor blades sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.