Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Sterling City, TX — 2020-03-12

Final reportCEN20LA442
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Date
2020-03-12
Location
Sterling City, TX, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N4386W
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

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

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported to local law enforcement that while conducting an aerial application flight, the helicopter impacted power lines. He said that while he had crossed over the power lines multiple times during the application flight; however, the sun was blocked by a cloud and the power line was not visible due to the lack of a reflection off the line. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor mast. According to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector that examined the helicopter on scene, he reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operations.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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