Probable cause
The pilot's failure to adequately monitor the environment to maintain clearance from the power pole guide wire during low level maneuvering.
NTSB analysis
The operator reported that the helicopter struck a power pole guide wire while the pilot was conducting agriculture application operations. The wire was located on the edge of the field that was being sprayed, running perpendicular to the direction of flight. The wire was about 20 feet above ground level. The helicopter was substantially damaged and a post accident fire occurred. The operator reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA296 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 18, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Merced, California
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 47G 2A
- N-number
- N47DT
- 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.