Casualties unknown

1992-02-09: Maule M-5-235C (N5637W) — Michael J. Schultz — Durango, CO

Durango, CO, US

On February 9, 1992, a Maule M-5-235C (registration N5637W) operated by Michael J. Schultz was involved in an aviation accident near Durango, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. A FACTOR WAS: CROSSWIND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During landing on runway 19, the airplane drifted left. The pilot initiated a go-around, but a strong gust raised the right wing, causing the airplane to strike trees east of the runway.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that during the landing flare on runway 19, the airplane began drifting left. The pilot applied full power to execute a go-around. Shortly after, a strong gust of wind raised the right wing, causing the airplane to veer and strike trees located east of the runway.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the windsock indicated winds from 270 degrees at 8 to 10 knots prior to landing. While flaring, the airplane drifted left, prompting the go-around. The pilot encountered a strong gust that raised the right wing, leading to loss of control and collision with trees.

Environmental Factors

The pilot surmised that wind funneled through a gap in the hills west of the airport, directly opposite the point where control was lost, contributing to the unexpected gust.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14100. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.