Robinson R66
Vandalia, IL — August 2, 2019
Event Information
| Date | August 2, 2019 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA19CA481 |
| Event ID | 20190802X91659 |
| Location | Vandalia, IL |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 38.97528, -89.14250 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | Robinson |
| Model | R66 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 137 |
| 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 power lines during an agricultural application flight.
Full Narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that, during a high reconnaissance of a field intended for agricultural application, he saw power lines surrounding the field. He started the application southbound from the northwest section and after travelling about 300 yards, about 15 ft above the ground, the helicopter struck a power line, after which he was able to land the helicopter on to an adjacent field without further incident.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blade.
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.