On July 2, 1982, a Maule M-5 (registration N6172M) operated by Doug W. Wrate was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft experienced engine failure after erratic flight, with water and rust found in fuel system. Aircraft was overweight and had aft CG exceedance.
Flight History
Earlier on the day of the accident, the pilot had returned from a flight after experiencing a rough running engine. The spark plugs were changed. The aircraft then departed again from Chena Marina Airport.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft level off at approximately 300 to 350 feet above ground level. One witness noted the aircraft pitching up and down erratically as it leveled off. The aircraft then entered a right bank and was rolling out after a 90-degree heading change when the engine sputtered and quit. The nose of the aircraft dropped and the aircraft descended in a nearly vertical attitude.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine revealed evidence of water and rust contamination in the carburetor and fuel pump. Additionally, it was estimated that the aircraft was 379 pounds over its maximum gross weight and that the aft center of gravity was exceeded by 1.3 inches.
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