Pilot Dies After Helicopter Strikes Ham Radio Tower in Florida

A veteran helicopter pilot died after his helicopter struck a 150-foot tower standing behind a ham radio operator's home in Myakka City, Florida. The 63-year-old pilot was the only person aboard, and had just finished a mosquito-control spraying run when the accident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. on 15th October, in Manatee County.

A spokesperson for the county sheriff's office told local media that firefighters pulled the pilot from the wreckage as it burned. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The guyed tower — the tallest of three standing on the property — collapsed in the crash.

The Property and the Towers

Wireless Estimator, a website covering the wireless infrastructure industry, identified the property owner as Daniel Street, K1TO, who also owns an antenna installation company, A1 Tower Service. The site noted that towers under 200 feet aren't required by the Federal Aviation Administration to be lit, nor registered with the FCC's Antenna Structure Registration System. According to the public record, Wireless Estimator reported, the towers on the property were in compliance with those requirements.

What Happens Next

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident. The NTSB typically issues a preliminary report within roughly 30 days of a crash of this kind.

Our thoughts are with the pilot's family and everyone affected by this tragic accident.