On January 28, 1991, a Maule M5-180C (registration N5653Y) operated by Owen, Blanton H. was involved in an aviation accident near Owayhee, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to sun glare, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway surface and striking vegetation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft departed a gravel road adjacent to an airport due to snow-covered runways, drifted into soft soil during takeoff, and nosed over after striking sagebrush.
What happened
The pilot initiated takeoff from a gravel road situated immediately adjacent to the airport because the primary runway was obscured by snow. During the initial phase of the takeoff roll, the aircraft deviated to the right, causing the right main landing gear to leave the paved surface and enter the soft soil located on the shoulder of the road. The aircraft subsequently struck a sagebrush plant, which resulted in the nose section collapsing downward.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the right main landing gear had impacted soft terrain rather than remaining on the firm gravel surface. The impact with the vegetation contributed to the structural failure of the nose gear assembly. The pilot reported that intense sun glare significantly reduced visibility during the critical takeoff phase, which likely impaired the ability to maintain proper lateral control and track along the road centerline.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to sun glare, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway surface and striking vegetation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 28 Jan 1991 Maule M5-180C accident near Owayhee, NV?
An aircraft departed a gravel road adjacent to an airport due to snow-covered runways, drifted into soft soil during takeoff, and nosed over after striking sagebrush.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Jan 1991 involved a Maule M5-180C, registration N5653Y, operated by Owen, Blanton H., at Owayhee, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to sun glare, which resulted in the aircraft leaving the runway surface and striking vegetation.
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