HUGHES 269C near Yakima, WA — 2023-02-06

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to see and avoid a powerline while flying at low altitude over a river.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while flying low along the river, the helicopter collided with an unseen wire. The pilot subsequently accomplished a landing in the shallow water of the river without further incident. A main rotor blade was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Low altitude operation/event · Maneuvering-low-alt flying
• Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) · Maneuvering-low-alt flying
• Attention / Monitoring
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• Photos
• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• PHOTOSphotos

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