Accident Overview
On July 1, 2025, at 0845 central daylight time, a Bell 206B helicopter, registration N17626, was substantially damaged in an accident near Edgerton, Missouri. The helicopter was being operated as a Part 137 aerial application flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations. The commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, during a departure climb, he heard the engine surge and observed a decrease in main rotor speed. While the helicopter was at an altitude of about 150-200 feet above ground level and an airspeed of approximately 45-50 knots, he pulled back on the cyclic to slow down and lowered the collective slightly in an attempt to regain rotor speed. Subsequently, he heard the engine shut down. He then immediately lowered the collective and turned the aircraft slightly to the south to attempt a landing in a grass pasture.
Damage
During the landing, the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom, a tail rotor blade, and the main rotor blades.
Post-Accident Actions
The helicopter was retained for further examination.