Robinson R44
Grace, ID — January 3, 2019
Event Information
| Date | January 3, 2019 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA19CA110 |
| Event ID | 20190125X54539 |
| Location | Grace, ID |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 42.46194, -111.70222 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | Robinson |
| Model | R44 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the power lines.
Full Narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that shortly after liftoff to the north from his property, he observed coyote tracks and "wanted to inspect." To better observe the coyote, he maneuvered at a low altitude which led him to cross over a powerline. After crossing the powerline for a third time, he spotted the coyote, turned left, took his attention off the power line, continued to turn left and the main rotor blades struck the powerline. He maintained control of the helicopter and landed without further incident.
A post accident examination revealed the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades.
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane 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.