Probable cause
The pilot allowed the helicopter to settle with power.
NTSB analysis
The pilot approached the field he intended to spray from the northeast at a 45-degree angle. He made a gradual climbing left turn to align the helicopter for a spray run to the east, climbing to an altitude of about 100 feet above ground level and slowing to about 40 mph. The wind was from about 300 degrees at 10 mph. As he made the turn, the wind became a tailwind. The helicopter began to descend and settle with power. The pilot maintained a level attitude while attempting to gain airspeed. The helicopter impacted the ground in a level attitude on an easterly heading. The main rotor blades flexed down and severed the tail boom. The helicopter nosed over and came to rest on its right side facing west.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA282 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 9, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Flora, Indiana
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 206B-III
- N-number
- N1069Z
- 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.