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NTSB Report
July 18, 2014 · Bell 47G 2A · N47DT
Merced, CA
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 18, 2014
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 serious injury)
Location
Merced, CA
Aircraft
Bell 47G 2A
Tail Number
N47DT
Operator
Bettencort Flying Service
Injuries
Serious
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR14CA296
The operator reported that the helicopter struck a power pole guide wire while the pilot was conducting agriculture application operations. The wire was located on the edge of the field that was being sprayed, running perpendicular to the direction of flight. The wire was about 20 feet above ground level. The helicopter was substantially damaged and a post accident fire occurred. The operator reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to adequately monitor the environment to maintain clearance from the power pole guide wire during low level maneuvering.
Full Narrative
The operator reported that the helicopter struck a power pole guide wire while the pilot was conducting agriculture application operations. The wire was located on the edge of the field that was being sprayed, running perpendicular to the direction of flight. The wire was about 20 feet above ground level. The helicopter was substantially damaged and a post accident fire occurred. The operator reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time07:38 PDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireGrd
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBell 47G 2A
Tail NumberN47DT
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorBettencort Flying Service
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · VO-435 SERIES · Reciprocating · 240
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury Summary1 injury (1 serious injury)
Fatal0
Serious1
Minor0
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 43 · Second Class · Serious
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind320° @ 7 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point64 F / 55
Altimeter29.95 inHg
Observation Time13:53
Weather SourceWFAC