BELL TEXTRON CANADA LTD 505
Divot, TX — December 13, 2025
Event Information
| Date | December 13, 2025 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN26LA061 |
| Event ID | 20251216202167 |
| Location | Divot, TX |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 28.79694, -99.25194 |
| Highest Injury | SERS |
Aircraft
| Make | BELL TEXTRON CANADA LTD |
| Model | 505 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 1 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 2 |
Full Narrative
On December 13, 2025, about 1345 central standard time, a Bell Helicopter 505, N865S, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Divot, Texas. The pilot was seriously injured and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The helicopter was operated as a Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
According to the pilot, shortly after takeoff, a loud “bang” was heard in an area above his head. He experienced a partial loss of control as the cyclic began to shake, and the helicopter began to pitch uncommanded. During the loss of control, the helicopter was over a pond, so he maneuvered back over land for a forced landing. During the forced landing and contact with terrain, the helicopter rolled onto its left side sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system.
The helicopter was retained for further examination.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.