BELL 47G 2A near Merced, CA — 2014-07-18

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to adequately monitor the environment to maintain clearance from the power pole guide wire during low level maneuvering.

NTSB narrative

The operator reported that the helicopter struck a power pole guide wire while the pilot was conducting agriculture application operations. The wire was located on the edge of the field that was being sprayed, running perpendicular to the direction of flight. The wire was about 20 feet above ground level. The helicopter was substantially damaged and a post accident fire occurred. The operator reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Low altitude operation/event · Maneuvering-low-alt flying
• Attention / Monitoring

Evidence available

• Photos
• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• FAA Inspector's Diagramother
• Photo 1 - Power Pole Guy Wirephotos

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