Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a wind generator tower while drying cherries, which resulted in a loss of aircraft control and subsequent hard landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while drying cherries, he inadvertently let the main rotor blades strike a wind generator tower. The helicopter became uncontrollable, hit the ground hard, and came to rest in the orchard. The main rotor blades and airframe sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA270 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 27, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Quincy, Washington
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II
- N-number
- N560LH
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2003
- 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.