Pilot Debrief

AEROSPATIALE SA315B near Lewiston, ID — 2024-05-02

Final reportWPR24LA138
Sign in to save
Date
2024-05-02
Location
Lewiston, ID, USA
Aircraft
AEROSPATIALE SA315B
Registration
N42PL
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from power lines during a low level aerial application.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, while performing an aerial application on a field, the helicopter struck a set of power lines that he was previously aware of and had been working around during the flight. Following the impact with wires, he initiated a forced landing to a field. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades, transmission, tail rotor drive shaft, and tail boom. The pilot reported there were no mechanical failures or anomalies with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

Related mishaps