Executive summary
The helicopter was engaged in an aerial survey of Central Electric's distribution system. The pilot and technician conducting the survey, which utilised GPS equipment to pinpoint individual power pole positions, were accompanied by a line surveyor from the local electrical supply authority who acted as a guide and supplementary lookout. During the course of mapping a roadside 11kV line, the helicopter collided with the Roxburgh-Islington A 220kV line. The reactive forces of the rotor strike tore the transmission and engine from the airframe. The fuselage section of the helicopter came to rest inverted. The surveyor died in the impact sequence. The pilot and technician received serious injuries. The survey method was the first of its type to be conducted in New Zealand. As a result of the accident a series of recommendations, intended to enhance the safety of the operation, were made to the Operator.
Related Recommendations
During pre-flight briefing for these operations, you stress the importance of not departing from the planned task without a re-briefing.
If using a suitable observer instead of a second pilot, seat the observer in the second pilot position.
Consider the carriage of a second pilot to act as lookout on these operations.
Investigate the availability of shoulder harness kits which can be retrofitted to the rear passenger positions of the AS 350B.
Consider the use of protective helmets and suitable protective clothing for all personnel on board, when conducting operations of this nature.