Robinson Helicopter R44 Raven 1 N26EH accident near Scribner, Nebraska

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines while maneuvering at low-level altitude during an agricultural operation.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported he was conducting aerial pollination in a corn field. Before beginning the pollination, the pilot flew an inspection circuit around the area to identify potential hazards and observed a center-pivot irrigation system and the power lines along the east and west sides of the field. The pilot reported that he completed about 3/4 of the field pollination and had two passes remaining. While turning the helicopter to enter another pass, the pilot focused on the target row, lost sight of the power lines, and the helicopter struck a power line wire with the tail rotor.

Following the wire strike, the pilot elected to perform a precautionary landing. During the landing, the helicopter contacted the ground on the right skid, bounced, and yawed slightly to the right before it came to a stop.

A post-accident examination of the helicopter revealed substantial damage to the right rear aft strut mounting area, and damage to the pilot seat floor structure at the forward strut attachment. The pilot reported that there was no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN26LA289 for the full record.