Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines while maneuvering at low altitude.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, during a cherry drying flight, the helicopter climbed slowly over a small hill and then struck power lines on the other side of the hill. The helicopter subsequently made a "medium-hard" impact with a grassy area near the orchard.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom.
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA352 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 17, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Orondo, Washington
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 206
- N-number
- N2762P
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1991
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Other work use
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.