Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from the wheat crop during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The aerial-application helicopter was operating from an uncultivated area of the wheat field being sprayed. The pilot stated that, shortly after takeoff, while accelerating through translational lift, the helicopter encountered a momentary loss of lift, consistent with an encounter with a wind gust, and settled into the wheat crop. The helicopter pitched down suddenly as the spray booms made contact with the crop and subsequently collided with terrain. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the helicopter.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA317 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 3, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- New Columbia, Illinois
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Texas Helicopter Corporation OH-13E/M74
- N-number
- N38096
- Category
- Helicopter
- 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.