On July 24, 1990, a Maule M-5-235C (registration N6VD) operated by Beattie, Michael J. was involved in an aviation accident near East Tawas, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control during landing due to wind shear. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot with limited experience lost control of the aircraft during landing due to wind shear and a gust, resulting in a ground loop.
What happened
The pilot reported experiencing wind shear while conducting the final approach for landing. Shortly after the aircraft touched down on the runway, a gust of wind caught the airplane. This sudden aerodynamic disturbance caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft, leading to a ground loop.
The investigation
An examination of the pilot's qualifications revealed that he had accumulated 170 hours of total flight experience at the time of the incident. Of those hours, 131 were logged specifically in the accident make and model aircraft.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control during landing due to wind shear.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Jul 1990 Maule M-5-235C accident near East Tawas, MI?
A pilot with limited experience lost control of the aircraft during landing due to wind shear and a gust, resulting in a ground loop.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jul 1990 involved a Maule M-5-235C, registration N6VD, operated by Beattie, Michael J., at East Tawas, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control during landing due to wind shear.
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