Probable cause
The pilot's loss of situational awareness, which resulted in his failure to maintain adequate clearance from powerlines.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot was conducting a helicopter flight to assist with herding cattle that had gotten loose. According to multiple witnesses on the ground, the helicopter impacted powerlines and then terrain. Video of the accident showed the helicopter facing away from the powerlines at the time of the collision with the powerlines.
A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation at the time of the accident. The witnesses on the ground indicated that there was unlimited visibility and no precipitation at the time of the accident. Thus, the pilot was likely focused on the cattle and lost situational awareness regarding the helicopter's proximity to the powerlines, which resulted in the collision with the powerlines and terrain.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN18LA025 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 6, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Larchwood, Iowa
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter R44
- N-number
- N7085M
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1998
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
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.