Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from an obstacle while maneuvering.
NTSB analysis
While maneuvering during an agricultural application flight, the pilot flew too close to a telephone pole. The helicopter's main rotor blade impacted the pole about 10 feet above the ground. Thereafter, the pilot lost control of the helicopter and crashed into the field. The pilot reported that prior to the collision, no mechanical malfunctions were experienced with the helicopter.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10CA466 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 21, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mecca, California
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hiller UH-12E
- N-number
- N6053H
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
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.