Helicopter Strikes Powerline During Aerial Application Flight

Accident Sequence

The helicopter was conducting an aerial application flight into rising terrain. The pilot reported that he saw the powerline wires when the airspeed was approximately 40 knots. The helicopter struck the wires, causing it to roll to the right. Subsequently, the helicopter descended. It touched down in an upright attitude and bounced. After the bounce, the nose of the helicopter spun to the right, and the right skid struck the ground. The helicopter then rolled onto its left side and came to a stop.

Damage Assessment

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor drive system. The extent of damage to other components was not specified.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.