N1767L

Substantial
None

Robinson R66S/N: 0044

Accident Details

Date
Friday, August 2, 2019
NTSB Number
GAA19CA481
Location
Vandalia, IL
Event ID
20190802X91659
Coordinates
38.975276, -89.142501
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during an agricultural application flight. 

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
ROBINSON
Serial Number
0044
Engine Type
Turbo-shaft
Model / ICAO
R66R66
Aircraft Type
Rotorcraft
No. of Engines
1
Seats
5
FAA Model
R66

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
HELICROPS LLC
Address
2 AIRPORT RD
City
FLORA
State / Zip Code
IL 62839-3450
Country
United States

Analysis

The helicopter pilot reported that, during a high reconnaissance of a field intended for agricultural application, he saw power lines surrounding the field. He started the application southbound from the northwest section and after travelling about 300 yards, about 15 ft above the ground, the helicopter struck a power line, after which he was able to land the helicopter on to an adjacent field without further incident.

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blade.

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

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA19CA481