On October 21, 1999, a Maule M-5-235C (registration N6147M) was involved in an aviation accident near Laurel, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. Factors include a dust devil/whirlwind at the location where the pilot was trying to land. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that during the landing roll, a whirlwind lifted the right wing, causing the aircraft to weathervane right; the left main gear collapsed inward, damaging the left wing and fuselage. No mechanical failure was found.
Incident Details
During the landing roll, a sudden whirlwind lifted the aircraft's right wing, prompting the aircraft to weathervane to the right. Before the pilot could adequately correct for the wind condition, the left main landing gear collapsed inward. The incident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft's left wing and fuselage.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed no mechanical failure or malfunctions in the flight control system. The pilot's account of the whirlwind and subsequent weathervaning was consistent with the damage pattern observed.
What happened in the 21 Oct 1999 Maule M-5-235C accident near Laurel, MT?
A pilot reported that during the landing roll, a whirlwind lifted the right wing, causing the aircraft to weathervane right; the left main gear collapsed inward, damaging the left wing and fuselage. No mechanical failure was found.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Oct 1999 Maule M-5-235C accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Oct 1999 involved a Maule M-5-235C, registration N6147M, at Laurel, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. Factors include a dust devil/whirlwind at the location where the pilot was trying to land.
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