Kettle Complex Bucket Powerline Strike 2015

On the Renner Fire on the Kettle Complex in Northeast Washington, a Type I Helicopter with a 150-foot longline is completing bucket work when—on its first approach for a dip operation at a new dip site (that had not previously been used)—its bucket strikes a residential power line. The pilot expertly maneuvers the aircraft backwards to unfold the bucket from the power line and safely returns to the helibase to debrief and take a tactical pause. Due to the pilot’s experience, quick thinking, and calm professional demeanor, the bucket did not need to be jettisoned. It sustained minimal damage, ensuring a precious resource could continue to be used on this high-priority incident.

RLS, Extended Attack, Aviation, Helicopters, Helicopter Incident or Accident