Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a loss of engine power.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the final run for the aerial application flight, he noticed the engine spooling down. He attempted to land on a nearby road but collided with the terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter or engine that would have precluded normal operation and that the loss of engine power was due to fuel exhaustion.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR23LA118 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 2, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Orland, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell UH-1B
- N-number
- N234SJ
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1962
- 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.