On January 18, 1987, a Maule M-4-220C (registration N40349) operated by Donald F. Stanton was involved in an aviation accident near Paradise, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a loss of control and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot practicing touch-and-go landings experienced excessive crabbing on final approach to runway 35. Upon touchdown, the right wing lifted, causing the aircraft to tip onto its left wing and collide with terrain.
What happened
The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting practice touch-and-go landings. During the final approach to runway 35, the pilot reported that a considerable amount of crabbing to the right was necessary to maintain alignment with the runway centerline.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft's right wing lifted off the ground. In response, the pilot turned the control wheel to the right and applied right rudder input. Despite these corrective actions, the aircraft tipped over onto its left wing and collided with the terrain.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's account of the final approach and touchdown sequence. Key factors included the significant crab angle required on final approach and the subsequent control inputs made immediately after wheel contact.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a loss of control and collision with terrain.