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NTSB Report
August 4, 2021 · Robinson Helicopter R44 · N775AK
Waukon, IA
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 4, 2021
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Waukon, IA
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 (2008)
Tail Number
N775AK
Operator
Rotors
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN21LA350
The pilot was conducting an agricultural application pass when the helicopter struck a powerline crossing the cornfield being sprayed. He did not see the line until exiting the helicopter after the accident. Earlier in the morning he had surveyed the area for obstacles but did not observe any lines crossing the field. The pilot commented that his initial survey pass was completed toward the east with the sun “low in the sky and in [his] eyes.” He noted that there were no issues with the helicopter before contacting with the power line. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, the fuselage, and the empennage.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a powerline during an agricultural application pass.
Full Narrative
The pilot was conducting an agricultural application pass when the helicopter struck a powerline crossing the cornfield being sprayed. He did not see the line until exiting the helicopter after the accident. Earlier in the morning he had surveyed the area for obstacles but did not observe any lines crossing the field. The pilot commented that his initial survey pass was completed toward the east with the sun “low in the sky and in [his] eyes.” He noted that there were no issues with the helicopter before contacting with the power line. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, the fuselage, and the empennage.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time08:15 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44
Tail NumberN775AK
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorRotors
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540-F1B5 · Reciprocating · 260
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 66 · Second Class · Minor
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility7 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point61 F / 61 F
Altimeter30.14 inHg
Observation Time07:55
Weather SourceWFAC