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NTSB Report
September 8, 2021 · Bell 206L-3 · N6516K
Tillamook, OR
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
September 8, 2021
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Tillamook, OR
Aircraft
Bell 206L-3 (1990)
Tail Number
N6516K
Operator
Wilbur-Ellis
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR21LA338
The helicopter pilot reported that he was on a low reconnaissance over a field in a canyon intended for agricultural application. During a climb out that was on a heading facing the sun, he lost sight of a previously identified powerline, and attempted to avoid it by referencing the two supporting powerline poles. As the helicopter flew closer, he located the wires and believed that the helicopter’s trajectory would clear the obstacle; however, the helicopter struck the powerline, the pilot lost control, and the helicopter descended and impacted terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor system. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a powerline during a low reconnaissance, with sun glare.
Full Narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that he was on a low reconnaissance over a field in a canyon intended for agricultural application. During a climb out that was on a heading facing the sun, he lost sight of a previously identified powerline, and attempted to avoid it by referencing the two supporting powerline poles. As the helicopter flew closer, he located the wires and believed that the helicopter’s trajectory would clear the obstacle; however, the helicopter struck the powerline, the pilot lost control, and the helicopter descended and impacted terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and main rotor system. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time11:00 PDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBell 206L-3
Tail NumberN6516K
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorWilbur-Ellis
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeTurboshaft
Engine DetailsAllison · 250-C30P · Turboshaft · 650
Seats7
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 40 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point68 F / 55 F
Altimeter30.05 inHg
Observation Time10:35
Weather SourceWFAC