On October 31, 1992, a Maule M4-210C (registration N9861M) operated by Abbott, David W. was involved in an aviation accident near Pickens, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW NORMAL BEFORE TAKEOFF PROCEDURES WHICH INCLUDED PLACING THE PROPELLER LEVER IN THE HIGH RPM LOW PITCH POSITION. THE PILOT ALSO DELAYED IN ABORTING THE TAKEOFF ATTEMPT AND APPLIED HARD BRAKING WHICH RESULTED IN A NOSE OVER. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot aborted a takeoff after the engine failed to develop power. During braking, the airplane nosed over. The propeller control lever was found in mid range, contrary to the pre-takeoff checklist instruction.
Event Sequence
Prior to the accident flight, the pilot had completed three landings without any reported issues. When the pilot subsequently attempted a takeoff, the engine did not develop sufficient power to enable a normal departure. The pilot elected to abort the takeoff, applying brakes after the aircraft had traversed approximately 3,300 feet along the runway. The application of brakes caused the airplane to nosed over.
Post-Accident Findings
After the accident, the pilot conducted an inspection of the cockpit and observed that the propeller control lever was positioned in the mid range. The aircraft's pre-takeoff checklist mandates that the propeller control lever be placed in the full forward position before takeoff. No mechanical malfunctions were identified, and the pilot did not report any pre-existing problems with the aircraft.