Bell 206-L4 — registry & accident history
Compiled from FAA & NTSB records · as of Jul 18, 2026
There are 306 Bell 206-L4 airframes on record (built 1969–2011), 124 currently registered. 16 have one or more NTSB accident records (17 records total, 8 with a fatal highest-injury classification). Data as of Jul 18, 2026.
Recent Bell 206-L4 accidents
A total loss of engine power due to a loss of cooling oil to the turbine-to-compressor coupling shaft and subsequent fracture of the shaft at an altitude too low for the pilot to complete a successful autorotation. Contributing to the accident was carbon buildup in the piccolo tube screen and nozzles and the disintegration of the spur adapter gearshaft O-rings for reasons that could not be determined.
The pilot’s failure to remain clear of powerlines during an agricultural spraying operation.
The helicopter’s uncontrolled vertical descent and impact with terrain for reasons that could not be determined.
The pilot's decision to fly at a low altitude over a large body of water toward featureless terrain, which resulted in a loss of visual clues and controlled flight into terrain.
The pilot’s improper takeoff technique that allowed the helicopter skid to drift into a helideck light, resulting in a dynamic rollover.
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident, was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision.
The pilot's failure to maintain helicopter control while it was being reloaded with the rotors turning in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a rotor strike with ground equipment.