Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from power lines during an aerial application flight.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was on an aerial application flight and was maneuvering the helicopter at a low altitude. During a decent to a field, the main rotor blade struck a powerline wire. The pilot felt an unusual vibration and performed a precautionary landing. A postflight examination revealed that a main rotor blade sustained substantial damage.
No preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation were reported.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA092 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 6, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Calexico, California
- Nearest airport
- (CXL)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson Helicopter Company R44 II
- N-number
- N422DX
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2009
- 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.