Casualties unknown

Helicopter Strikes Tree During Aerial Application, Rolls Over After Emergency Descent (N57362)

LA Grande, OR, US

On March 18, 1996, a Bell 206B (registration N57362) operated by Pioneer Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near LA Grande, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with trees after pulling up from an aerial application spray run. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that during an aerial application flight, the helicopter's left spray boom struck a tree during climb, causing a right rotation. Despite full left pedal input, the rotation continued, leading to an emergency descent and ground impact with rollover.

Incident Overview

The pilot of a helicopter reported that the accident occurred after completing a low-altitude aerial application spray run. During the subsequent climb to clear nearby trees, the left spray boom struck a tree. This impact caused the helicopter to begin rotating to the right.

Pilot Actions

The pilot applied full left pedal input in an attempt to counteract the rotation. However, the helicopter continued to rotate to the right. With the loss of directional control, the pilot initiated an emergency descent while simultaneously maneuvering to avoid obstacles.

Sequence of Events

Despite the pilot's efforts, the helicopter continued rotating as it descended. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground while still rotating and rolled over. The extent of damage to the helicopter was not specified in the report.

Investigation Details

The investigation is based solely on the pilot's account. No information was provided regarding the helicopter type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, weather conditions, or involvement of air traffic control. The number of occupants and any injuries were not disclosed.

Summary

The event highlights a loss of control following a tree strike during a low-altitude operation. The pilot's report details the sequence from the initial impact to the emergency descent and final rollover.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Mar 1996 Bell 206B accident near LA Grande, OR?

A pilot reported that during an aerial application flight, the helicopter's left spray boom struck a tree during climb, causing a right rotation. Despite full left pedal input, the rotation continued, leading to an emergency descent and ground impact with rollover.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Mar 1996 involved a Bell 206B, registration N57362, operated by Pioneer Aviation, Inc., at LA Grande, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with trees after pulling up from an aerial application spray run.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05486. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.