Accident Details
During an aerial application flight, the helicopter pilot conducted a high reconnaissance pass over the intended field, observing houses, tree lines, and power lines surrounding the area. The pilot then descended for the first spray pass at an indicated airspeed of 70 mph and an altitude of 100 to 150 feet above ground level.
As the helicopter approached the end of the field, the pilot suddenly became aware of two large power lines stretched in front at eye level and closing rapidly. In response, the pilot instinctively pulled up on the collective and back on the cyclic. The fuselage cleared the wires, but a violent lurch occurred when the tail rotor contacted one of the power lines. Subsequently, the helicopter began to spin out of control. The pilot braced for impact, and the helicopter impacted the terrain.
Damage Assessment
The fuselage, tail boom, and main rotor sustained substantial damage as a result of the impact.
Pilot Statements
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.