Occurrence Details
On 1 August 2025, a Bell 206B helicopter operated by Apex Helicopters Inc. was conducting aerial spraying operations over a cornfield near Thamesford, Ontario, approximately six nautical miles northeast of London Airport, Ontario. The helicopter had only the pilot on board.
Sequence of Events
During a reversal of direction following a spray run, the helicopter began to yaw to the right. It continued descending rapidly until it touched down. After touchdown, the helicopter rolled onto its right side before coming to rest in a field of wheat stubble.
Post-Impact Fire and Rescue
A post-impact fire began almost immediately following the crash, and the emergency locator transmitter (ELT) activated. Two motorists driving nearby witnessed the accident, stopped their vehicles, and assisted the pilot in exiting the wreckage. The pilot sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to hospital.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) is investigating the occurrence. This is a class 5 investigation, which is limited to collecting data for the modal database. A short description of the occurrence will be posted on the TSB website after the investigation is completed, generally within 90 days.