Occurrence
On 25 July 2021, at 0656 Eastern Daylight Time, a Robinson R44 helicopter (registration C-FVPA, serial number 0846) operated by Apex Helicopters Inc. departed from a field on the outskirts of Brantford, Ontario. The flight was conducted under visual flight rules for the purpose of agricultural spraying. The pilot was the sole occupant.
After departure, the pilot began a reconnaissance of the fields to be sprayed, starting with the field where the occurrence would take place. One minute and eight seconds later, the helicopter struck wires at the eastern edge of the southernmost field to be sprayed. The helicopter became uncontrollable and crashed approximately 270 feet from the wire strike location, coming to rest upright.
The pilot sustained serious injuries. The helicopter was destroyed. There was no post-impact fire, and the emergency locator transmitter did not activate.
Investigation
The investigation was classified as a Class 3 occurrence, which involves analysis of a small number of safety issues and may result in recommendations. The investigation identified that ineffective reconnaissance, glare from the sun, and unexpected position of the wires led to the accident.