Event Details
A helicopter pilot reported that shortly after lifting off to the north from his property, he observed coyote tracks and wanted to inspect. To better observe the coyote, he maneuvered at a low altitude, which led him to cross over a powerline. After crossing the powerline for a third time, he spotted the coyote, turned left, and took his attention off the powerline. As he continued the left turn, the main rotor blades struck the powerline.
Damage
A post-accident examination revealed that the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot maintained control of the helicopter and landed without further incident.
Findings
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.