Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from power lines while conducting a low-altitude aerial application.
NTSB analysis
During a low-altitude aerial herbicide application along an electrical transmission right-of-way, the helicopter struck power lines. Following the wire strike, the helicopter impacted terrain and sustained substantial damage to the tailboom, main rotor, and fuselage. The pilot was seriously injured.
The operator reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA277 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 21, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Stonewall, Oklahoma
- Nearest airport
- Field
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 206B III
- N-number
- N2193X
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1981
- 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.