Probable cause
A loss of helicopter control while maneuvering at low altitude for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot of the turbine-powered helicopter was conducting his seventh agricultural application flight of the day. After completing a pass and while the helicopter was about 45 ft above ground level, the pilot entered a right course-reversal turn for another pass. While the helicopter was turning, the pilot felt it shudder, and shortly thereafter, he heard a loud "bang." The helicopter then began to shake, and the pilot had little to no control. The helicopter skidded right, started descending, struck the ground, and rolled onto its right side. Postaccident examination of the helicopter did not reveal any preimpact mechanical deficiencies or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA347 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 7, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Deer Island, Oregon
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hiller UH-12D
- N-number
- N47035
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1959
- 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.