Collard Dragonfly

Big Sping, TX — August 4, 2008

Event Information

DateAugust 4, 2008
Event TypeACC
LocationBig Sping, TX
CountryUSA
Coordinates32.21250, -101.52500
AirportBIG SPRING MC MAHON-WRINKLE
Highest InjurySERS
NTSB NumberDFW08CA203
Event ID20080912X01444

Aircraft

MakeCollard
ModelDragonfly
Registration #N793TW
OwnerColorado Aerosports LLC
CategoryAIR
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious1
Minor0
None0
Total Injured1

Event Location

Probable Cause

Loss of aircraft control due to inadvertent penetration of a dust devil.

Full Narrative

The private pilot reported departing the airport in "challenging wind and [thermal] conditions." An automated weather reporting facility on the airport reported winds 50 degrees from runway heading at 11 knots gusting to 19 knots. After six successful touch-and-gos, the pilot entered the traffic pattern for a seventh approach. While turning base to final the pilot experienced a loss of aircraft control and impacted terrain. The pilot reported that dust devils were "prevalent in the area at that time."

About This NTSB Record

This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.

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