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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

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July 31, 2021 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N285RG

Randolph, WI

Overview

Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 31, 2021
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 serious injury)
Location
Randolph, WI
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II (2006)
Tail Number
N285RG
Operator
Mf Helicopters
Injuries
Serious
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN21LA349

The pilot reported that while making a turn at the end of a field following an aerial application pass, the helicopter struck power lines and subsequently impacted the ground. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor system. The pilot did not report any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported he was aware of the power lines but misjudged the position of the helicopter with reference to the lines and realized that he did not have sufficient room to make the turn without impacting the lines. The pilot stopped the turn and lowered the collective to attempt to pass under the power lines. The helicopter impacted the lower string of lines and impacted the ground, coming to rest almost upright.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from power lines during a low-level aerial application flight.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that while making a turn at the end of a field following an aerial application pass, the helicopter struck power lines and subsequently impacted the ground. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor system. The pilot did not report any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported he was aware of the power lines but misjudged the position of the helicopter with reference to the lines and realized that he did not have sufficient room to make the turn without impacting the lines. The pilot stopped the turn and lowered the collective to attempt to pass under the power lines. The helicopter impacted the lower string of lines and impacted the ground, coming to rest almost upright.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time09:30 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN285RG
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorMf Helicopters
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1AS · Reciprocating · 260
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury Summary1 injury (1 serious injury)
Fatal0
Serious1
Minor0
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 54 · Second Class · Serious

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind240° @ 3 kt
Visibility7 sm
CeilingOvercast 600 ft
Temperature / Dew Point64 F / 61 F
Altimeter30.05 inHg
Observation Time10:15
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data