On July 1, 1994, a Maule M-5 (registration N373X) operated by Amberger, Mark E. was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a bounced landing and subsequent hard touchdown, which resulted in an off-airport landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot bounced during the first landing attempt, then executed a hard three-point touchdown on the second try. The aircraft subsequently veered off the runway.
What happened
The pilot reported that during the initial approach for landing, the airplane touched down heavily and bounced upon impact. Following this event, the pilot elected to balk the landing and initiate a go-around procedure. During the subsequent second landing attempt, the aircraft achieved a three-point wheel touchdown. The airplane rolled uneventfully for a short distance along the runway surface before veering uncontrollably off the paved strip and coming to rest in an adjacent ditch.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the right main landing gear tire was deflated. Inspection of the tire identified a distinct slit in its structure, indicating a loss of pressure prior to or during the ground roll.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a bounced landing and subsequent hard touchdown, which resulted in an off-airport landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 Jul 1994 Maule M-5 accident near Anchorage, AK?
The pilot bounced during the first landing attempt, then executed a hard three-point touchdown on the second try. The aircraft subsequently veered off the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jul 1994 involved a Maule M-5, registration N373X, operated by Amberger, Mark E., at Anchorage, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a bounced landing and subsequent hard touchdown, which resulted in an off-airport landing.
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