What happened
On 1 August 2025, a Bell 206B helicopter, operated by Apex Helicopters Inc., was performing aerial spraying over a cornfield located near Thamesford, Ontario. The aircraft was operating approximately six nautical miles northeast of London Airport.
While the pilot was executing a reversal of direction following a completed spray run, the helicopter experienced a rightward yaw. This maneuver led to a rapid descent, resulting in the aircraft touching down in a field of wheat stuble. Upon impact, the helicopter rolled onto its right side. A fire ignited in the wreckage shortly after the crash, triggering the activation of the emergency locator transmitter.
Two drivers on a nearby road witnessed the accident and stopped to help the pilot escape the burning aircraft. The pilot suffered serious injuries and was transported to a hospital via air ambulance.
The investigation
The TSB is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.