Pilot Debrief

BELL 206 near Cornland, IL — 2024-07-21

Final reportCEN24LA276
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Date
2024-07-21
Location
Cornland, IL, USA
Aircraft
BELL 206
Registration
N26UK
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot was unable to see a wire due to the setting sun and the helicopter subsequently struck the wire.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that while performing aerial applications, the main rotor mast struck a wire. The helicopter became uncontrollable and it impacted a cornfield. He stated the sun was setting and he did not see the wire. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom, tail rotor blade, and main rotor blades. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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