On June 6, 1994, a Maule M6-235 (registration N56447) was involved in an aviation accident near Bethel, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The fracture of the right main wheel axle due to overload, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and ground looping. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft veered sharply to the right after landing as the right main wheel dragged, causing a ground loop. Investigation revealed an overloaded fracture in the axle.
What happened
According to statements provided by the pilot's attorney, the incident began immediately after the aircraft touched down on the runway. The pilot reported that the right main wheel started to drag shortly after landing. This drag caused the airplane to veer sharply to the right. Despite attempts to maintain directional control, the pilot was unable to correct the turn. Consequently, the airplane entered a ground loop.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft to determine the mechanical cause of the loss of control. The examination revealed that the axle associated with the right main wheel had fractured and was bent upward. A subsequent visual inspection of the fracture surface showed no visible fatigue striations. The characteristics of the fracture surface were consistent with an overload failure rather than a progressive fatigue crack.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the structural failure of the landing gear component. The right axle fractured due to overload, leading to the immediate drag of the right main wheel. This mechanical failure prevented the pilot from maintaining directional control during the critical phase of landing rollout.
Probable cause
The fracture of the right main wheel axle due to overload, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and ground looping.