Casualties unknown

2000-02-12: Maule M-6-235 (N56507) — Reserve, NM

Reserve, NM, US

On February 12, 2000, a Maule M-6-235 (registration N56507) was involved in an aviation accident near Reserve, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for wind conditions. A factor was the wind gust. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During approach to land, the pilot encountered variable wind conditions. After a go-around, the second approach resulted in a ballooning flare, followed by a nose-over when power was reduced to avoid obstacles.

Flight Details

The pilot reported that during descent to the airport, the wind shifted to light to moderate from the south. The midfield wind sock was observed to be straight out, indicating a left quartering wind relative to runway 24.

Approach and Go-Around

Describing the final approach as rough, the pilot decided to execute a go-around. He noted that the wind sock at the end of the runway was hanging, bent in the middle.

Second Approach

On the second approach, the pilot stated he was able to maintain runway heading without introducing a crab angle. As he flared the airplane for landing, it ballooned 8 to 10 feet back into the air. He applied some power in response.

Accident Sequence

When the airplane settled back toward the ground, the left wing and nose rose. The pilot then applied full power. Observing trees and a beacon tower that he could not avoid, he reduced power to idle. The airplane subsequently struck the ground and nosed over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20482. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.