Summary
The pilot had been briefed on a number of treatment areas some days earlier. When he approached this area, he did not see the powerline. At the end of the first spray run he flew into the wire. The helicopter developed a vibration, and the pilot landed as soon as possible.
Inspection found that one main rotor and one tail rotor blade was damaged and required replacement.
He had been advised of the presence of the wire during the earlier briefing.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199400845 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 05/04/1994 |
| Location | Cowley (20 km south of Innisfail) |
| State | Queensland |
| Report release date | 02/09/1994 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Wirestrike |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Hughes Helicopters |
|---|---|
| Model | 269C |
| Registration | VH-WPP |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Cowley QLD |
| Destination | Cowley QLD |
| Damage | Substantial |