Part 107 UAS pilot reported the UAS collided with a wind turbine blade during an inspection. The UAS was unrecoverable.

Narrative

This incident resulted from a limitation in the automated obstacle avoidance system's ability to properly respond to the complex environment presented by close-proximity wind turbine blade inspections. Despite all safety protocols being followed and the operator responding appropriately; the automated system engaged before manual intervention could prevent the collision.The corrective actions implemented--particularly the prohibition of nacelle launches and the requirement for parachute/flotation equipment--directly address the root causes and will significantly reduce the risk of recurrence while also protecting the marine environment. These measures; combined with enhanced training; equipment reviews; and procedural updates; demonstrate the companies commitment to operational safety and continuous improvement.On Day 0; at XA:14 local time; Company X was conducting a routine wind turbine blade inspection. The operation was conducted in accordance with approved documentation and completed with all required approvals.During the inspection flyover of Blade #2; the DJI Matrice 4E drone began positioning closer to the turbine blade than anticipated. The drone's obstacle avoidance system detected proximity to the blade and triggered an automatic alert. The operator attempted to cancel the automated response and regain manual control. However; before manual control could be reestablished; the drone's automated correction system engaged and initiated a correction maneuver that directed the aircraft into the turbine blade rather than away from it; resulting in collision with Blade #2 at XA:14.Following impact; the drone fell into the sea and was lost.Environmental Conditions: Wind conditions were monitored throughout the mission via on-site weather station equipment. Average wind speed was 8 m/s; with 6 m/s recorded at the time of incident--well within operational parameters. All pre-flight checks were completed; and all systems were operational prior to the mission.Immediate Recovery Efforts: Mission was immediately terminated at XA:14. Site conditions documented. Weather station data preserved. Incident reported to safety team. Visual search conducted for debris - aircraft unrecoverable due to water depth and sea conditions. FAA UAS officer contacted and confirmed no formal FAA report required (no injuries; no third-party property damage).Relevant Events Within 24 Hours: Incident reported to all relevant parties. Comprehensive incident investigation initiated. Blade #2 inspected for damage. All documentation preserved and compiled.Lost Marine Debris Description; Gear Markings; and Identifying Characteristics: Equipment: DJI Matrice 4E Professional Drone Company XDescription: Commercial-grade quadcopter drone with carbon fiber frame; four rotors with propellers; integrated camera/sensor payload; lithium polymer battery pack; GPS module; and electronic flight control systems. Aircraft features DJI branding and may have Company X identification markings.Components: Carbon fiber airframe and arms. Four brushless motors. Four carbon fiber/composite propellers. Integrated camera and gimbal system. Lithium polymer battery (potential hazardous material). Electronic control systems and circuit boards. GPS and communication modules. Plastic housing components.Physical Specifications: Length: Approximately 900 mm (35.4 inches) diagonal wheelbase. Width: Approximately 900 mm (35.4 inches) with propellers. Height: Approximately 400 mm (15.7 inches). Weight: Approximately 8 kg (17.6 lbs) with battery installed.Composition: Carbon fiber; aluminum; plastic (ABS/polycarbonate); lithium polymer (LiPo battery - hazardous material); copper (wiring); steel (fasteners); electronic components (circuit boards; sensors)