Probable cause
The pilot's diverted attention, which resulted in the failure to maintain clearance from the power line.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was flying an aerial application flight when the helicopter contacted a power line that ran perpendicular to the direction of the spray run. The pilot stated he was aware of the power line, but he became distracted by horses that were located near the field. The wire strike and ground impact resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA533 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 31, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rushford, Minnesota
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Garlick Helicopters Inc OH-58C
- N-number
- N82855
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.