On August 23, 1982, a Maule M-6-235 (registration N56493) operated by Arizona Truss Fabricators, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near 5NM SW OF Mcnea, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to perform a low-level maneuver in high density altitude conditions, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft stalled immediately after takeoff while performing a low-level pass over people on the ground at high density altitude, resulting in a crash.
What happened
Immediately after takeoff, the aircraft was observed executing a right turn with an abnormally nose-high attitude. The aircraft appeared to stall and slide toward the left wing. Before any recovery could be completed, the left wing and nose struck the soft ground simultaneously at a 45-degree angle.
A witness stated that the pilot had previously indicated he intended to "buzz" persons remaining on the ground. A density altitude of 7,000 feet was calculated for the conditions.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the immediate sequence of events leading to the impact. The aircraft's flight path and attitude were consistent with a stall during a low-altitude maneuver. No mechanical failure was identified as a contributing factor to the loss of control.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to perform a low-level maneuver in high density altitude conditions, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground.
What happened in the 23 Aug 1982 Maule M-6-235 accident near 5NM SW OF Mcnea, AZ?
An aircraft stalled immediately after takeoff while performing a low-level pass over people on the ground at high density altitude, resulting in a crash.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Aug 1982 involved a Maule M-6-235, registration N56493, operated by Arizona Truss Fabricators, Inc, at 5NM SW OF Mcnea, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to perform a low-level maneuver in high density altitude conditions, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground.
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