Probable cause
The pilot did not maintain clearance from wires during an aerial application flight.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while performing an aerial application flight at low altitude, the helicopter impacted wires between two poles. He stated the wires were higher than he expected due to the change in terrain contours relative to the poles, and he did not see the wires until just before impact. He then performed a precautionary landing to an adjacent waterway. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA300 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 20, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Dickeyville, Wisconsin
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson R44
- N-number
- N570WH
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1998
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
Other records under this N-number
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.