Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to water contamination in the fuel system. Contributing to the accident were the pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection of the fuel tanks and the operator’s inadequate inspection of the fuel supply truck that did not detect water contamination.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the helicopter was filled with 80 gallons of herbicide and about 20 gallons of fuel before departure. He then departed from the support fuel truck and made a climbing right turn, during which the engine lost power. The pilot lowered the helicopter's nose in an attempt to regain rotor rpm; however, the helicopter did not have sufficient altitude to regain rotor rpm, and it subsequently impacted terrain.
A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed water contamination throughout the fuel system. Fuel samples taken from the support fuel truck also contained water contamination. The loss of engine power is consistent with water contamination in the fuel system.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15LA423 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 24, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Woodville, Texas
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 206B
- N-number
- N648CA
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1982
- 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.