Probable cause
The loss of helicopter control for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he planned on hovering in the helicopter to get some measurements using a vibration computer. After lifting off and entering a hover, the helicopter started to yaw left. The pilot applied the right pedal, but the yaw continued. While the pilot maneuvered the helicopter away from buildings, it entered a spin and then spun about six to eight times before a main rotor blade struck a tree. The pilot stated that there was only a light breeze and no wind gusts at the time of the accident. An examination of the tail rotor drive belts revealed that at least two of the three belts were not damaged. The reason for the loss of control could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15LA185 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 28, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marquette, Michigan
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built ROTORWAY 162F
- N-number
- N556DG
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.