Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain sufficient altitude to clear power lines while maneuvering at low altitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow company operating specifications for minimum altitude.
NTSB analysis
The helicopter crewmembers were returning to their home base after transporting a patient. The pilot was flying the helicopter at en route altitudes of around 80-100 feet above ground level and struck power lines; he was not following company operating specifications of a minimum altitude of at least 300 feet. The pilot reported that he did not observe the wires until after the initial impact and was able to land the helicopter off airport without incident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13IA059 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 15, 2012
- Type
- Incident
- Place
- Riverton, Wyoming
- Nearest airport
- Riverton Regional (RIW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 407
- N-number
- N7160V
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Minor
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
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.