Hughes 369
Ridgeway, PA — August 22, 2018
Event Information
| Date | August 22, 2018 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA18CA506 |
| Event ID | 20180823X24557 |
| Location | Ridgeway, PA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 41.40111, -78.56139 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | Hughes |
| Model | 369 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAWN |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during an aerial observation flight.
Full Narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, after a high reconnaissance the helicopter was descended to about 30 ft above the power lines for the powerline inspection, while flying about 30-35 knots. While patrolling, they climbed over an identified crossing line, and then descended back down. During the decent , the passenger spotted a previously unseen power line in their flight path so the pilot "pulled hard aft cyclic with right pedal" but the main rotor blades struck the power line. The helicopter acquired a vibration in the main rotor system, but pilot was able to land without further incident.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.