Pilot Debrief

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELI CO 369FF near Palm Gardens, NV — 2021-05-06

Final reportWPR21LA185
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Date
2021-05-06
Location
Palm Gardens, NV, USA
Aircraft
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELI CO 369FF
Registration
N972BW
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain helicopter control during an encounter with a dust devil shortly after takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, the helicopter encountered a dust devil from the right side, which caused the helicopter to yaw right and descend. Despite the pilot’s best attempt to control the helicopter, it struck terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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