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NTSB Report
September 15, 2021 · Robinson Helicopter R66 · N166LW
Reynoldsville, IL
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
September 15, 2021
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Reynoldsville, IL
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R66 (2017)
Tail Number
N166LW
Operator
Thompson Flying Service
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN21LA421
The pilot reported that during an aerial application flight, the wind was about 10-15 mph from the south. During the flight, the pilot noted that the wind created a “pocket of turbulence” over a wire due to a gap in nearby trees. As the helicopter went over the wire, a pocket of descending air pushed the helicopter into the wire. The pilot made an uneventful precautionary landing at his nearby landing site; the main rotor blades sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from the wire during low altitude operations in windy conditions.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that during an aerial application flight, the wind was about 10-15 mph from the south. During the flight, the pilot noted that the wind created a “pocket of turbulence” over a wire due to a gap in nearby trees. As the helicopter went over the wire, a pocket of descending air pushed the helicopter into the wire. The pilot made an uneventful precautionary landing at his nearby landing site; the main rotor blades sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:00 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R66
Tail NumberN166LW
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorThompson Flying Service
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeTurboshaft
Engine DetailsRolls Royce · 250-C300/A1 · Turboshaft · 300
Seats5
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 25 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind30° @ 7 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point66 F
Altimeter29.94 inHg
Observation Time15:00
Weather SourceWFAC