Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain helicopter control during an encounter with a dust devil shortly after takeoff.
NTSB analysis
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA185 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 6, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palm Gardens, Nevada
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mcdonnell Douglas Heli Co 369FF
- N-number
- N972BW
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1994
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 133 (external load)
- Purpose of flight
- External load
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.