Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 near Marion, KY — 2010-07-05

Final reportERA10LA348
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Date
2010-07-05
Location
Marion, KY, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44
Registration
N857PM
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during an aerial application flight.

NTSB narrative

A witness observed the helicopter depart and begin aerial spray operations in a corn field. He turned away and heard a loud “pop,” then turned around to see the helicopter collide with a power line guy wire and the ground before bursting in flames. A postaccident examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly, and accessories revealed no anomalies.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided the aerial application run near power lines.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 12 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents12

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