Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from power lines while maneuvering at a low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was conducting an aerial application flight and was transitioning to another field when the helicopter struck a power line. The pilot stated that he did not see the wires between the two fields.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR25LA078 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 14, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lemoore, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 206A
- N-number
- N6255N
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1968
- Damage
- Destroyed
- 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.