Probable cause
The pilot’s improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he intended to spray an agricultural field and was maneuvering in preparation for the first pass when the helicopter lost engine power. The pilot subsequently accomplished a forced landing to an open field. During the landing sequence, the helicopter’s main rotor blades flexed down and made contact with the tailboom, which resulted in substantial damage to the tailboom assembly. The pilot reported that after the landing he discovered the fuel selector valve in the off position. He reported that he had turned the fuel selector valve to the off position to drain the fuel sump during the preflight; however, he failed to re-open the valve after the preflight and prior to takeoff.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA120 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 10, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Shandon, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 206B
- N-number
- N802KA
- 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.