Robinson Helicopter R44 N775AK accident near Waukon, Iowa

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a powerline during an agricultural application pass.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was conducting an agricultural application pass when the helicopter struck a powerline crossing the cornfield being sprayed. He did not see the line until exiting the helicopter after the accident. Earlier in the morning he had surveyed the area for obstacles but did not observe any lines crossing the field. The pilot commented that his initial survey pass was completed toward the east with the sun “low in the sky and in [his] eyes.” He noted that there were no issues with the helicopter before contacting with the power line. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, the fuselage, and the empennage.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA350 for the full record.