Helicopter Strikes Powerline Wires During Cherry Drying Flight, Sustains Substantial Tailboom Damage

Accident Details

The incident involved a helicopter engaged in a cherry drying operation. While flying, the helicopter climbed slowly over a small rise in the terrain. On the opposite side of that rise, it contacted overhead powerline wires. The pilot then performed a landing. The landing was characterized as hard.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that no mechanical malfunctions or failures existed that would have prevented normal flight operations. The helicopter was in good working order prior to and during the event.

Damage

Following the landing, an inspection revealed that the helicopter had sustained substantial damage to its tailboom. The term 'substantial damage' indicates that the component requires major repair or replacement. No other damage was mentioned.