Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain main rotor speed while maneuvering at low altitude during an agricultural application flight, which resulted in an uncontrolled descent into terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was applying a fungicide spray to a field when the helicopter began to lose altitude. The pilot tried to arrest the helicopter's descent while turning by increasing collective pitch, which resulted in a low main rotor speed. The helicopter impacted trees and terrain. Examination of the helicopter revealed no preaccident mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA448 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 28, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Capron, Illinois
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Robinson R44
- N-number
- N9681R
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 2001
- 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.