Probable cause
The loss of helicopter control for reasons that could not be determined because an examination of the helicopter and its systems revealed no malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The helicopter had completed aerial applications at two designated locations without incident. Recorded GPS data and witness information indicated that the helicopter then travelled north at a low altitude to another location. Witnesses observed the helicopter rolling or banking left and descending. The helicopter subsequently impacted a residential garage and terrain. A postimpact fire destroyed the helicopter's forward section and a majority of its control system components. An examination of the helicopter and its systems revealed no malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operations. The helicopter was below the allowable maximum gross weight. The reason of the loss of helicopter control could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13FA357 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 19, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Maplewood, Minnesota
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 47G-3B-1
- N-number
- N5024N
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Destroyed
- 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.