On April 4, 1999, a Maule M-5 (registration N9237E) was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the airplane swerving off the runway and contacting snow. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A tailwheel-equipped airplane swerved off the left side of a snowy runway following a crosswind landing gust, resulting in a nose-over incident with no reported mechanical failures.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft had successfully landed on a runway measuring 3,500 feet in length and 75 feet in width. The landing was conducted into a left crosswind with speeds ranging from six to eight knots. Shortly after touchdown, a gust of wind lifted the left wing of the tailwheel-equipped airplane. This aerodynamic disturbance caused the aircraft to swerve off the left side of the paved surface.
Upon leaving the runway, the wheels contacted snow-covered ground. The contact with the soft surface caused the airplane to nosed over. The pilot confirmed that there were no pre-existing mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the airplane swerving off the runway and contacting snow.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Apr 1999 Maule M-5 accident near Talkeetna, AK?
A tailwheel-equipped airplane swerved off the left side of a snowy runway following a crosswind landing gust, resulting in a nose-over incident with no reported mechanical failures.
Were there any fatalities in the 4 Apr 1999 Maule M-5 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Apr 1999 involved a Maule M-5, registration N9237E, at Talkeetna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the airplane swerving off the runway and contacting snow.
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