Robinson Helicopter R22 BETA N4081H accident near Santa Paula, California

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines while flying at a low altitude.

NTSB analysis

A witness who lived near the accident site saw the helicopter flying in a northeasterly direction paralleling her property. The helicopter was below the tree line on the opposite side of the riverbed and was descending. The witness stated that the helicopter sounded normal but was unusually loud because it was so close. Shortly after losing sight of the helicopter, she heard two loud "pops."

Examination of the accident site revealed that the helicopter struck three unmarked overhead distribution power lines about 80 ft above ground level while traveling in a northeasterly direction. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. It is likely that the pilot did not see the power lines as he was flying along the river at low altitude. It was unknown why the pilot was flying at such a low altitude.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14FA203 for the full record.