Accident Details
On July 22, 2025, at about 1400 central daylight time, a Robinson Helicopter Company R66 helicopter, registration N88911, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Maynard, Iowa. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured. The helicopter was conducting an aerial application flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that he had been performing spray operations for approximately 50 minutes prior to the event. While flying at an altitude of about 5 to 10 feet above a corn field, the helicopter entered a turn. During the turn, the turbine engine experienced a flameout. The pilot responded by immediately lowering the collective control and applying aft cyclic to gain altitude. He then executed a forced landing in the corn field. The landing resulted in the separation of the helicopter's tailboom.
Examination
The helicopter was retained for further examination to determine the cause of the engine flameout and the extent of the damage. No further information has been released at this time.