Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a power line while maneuvering at low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot was maneuvering the helicopter at low altitude to conduct agricultural spraying operations. While departing the coverage area, the pilot saw power lines and attempted to fly underneath them, but the helicopter's main rotor mast struck a wire, and the helicopter subsequently collided with terrain. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15LA116 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 27, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ivanhoe, California
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 47G 2A
- N-number
- N4774S
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1965
- 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.