Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain helicopter control after becoming spatially disoriented when the helicopter entered low-level haze/fog.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during an aerial application flight, he encountered some “low-level haze/fog” as he maneuvered the helicopter towards the load truck. After safely landing, he decided to add fuel and return to his operating base. Shortly after departure, the fog thickened so he decided to return to the load site. The pilot reported that he was headed in the direction of the load truck but became spatially disorientated as the haze/fog thickened. The helicopter subsequently impacted the ground coming to rest on its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, fuselage, and tail boom. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR22LA032 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 9, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Holtville, California
- Nearest airport
- (NA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Bell OH-58A
- N-number
- N902SF
- Category
- Helicopter
- Year built
- 1970
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
Other records under this N-number
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.