On July 15, 2000, a Maule ML-5 (registration N6194M) was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of the fuel tank selector, resulting in fuel starvation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, the pilot experienced an engine power loss upon turning away from the runway. Despite switching to a different fuel tank, the engine did not restart, resulting in a landing in a swampy area with substantial damage to the right wing.
Incident Details
The pilot reported that prior to takeoff, he was aware the left wing fuel tank was nearly empty and that he needed to switch to the right tank. Following the initial takeoff, as soon as he turned away from the runway, the engine lost all power. He switched the fuel selector to the right tank and turned the airplane back toward the runway. The engine did not restart, and the airplane did not have sufficient altitude to reach the runway. The aircraft subsequently landed in a swampy area.
Pilot Actions
The pilot acknowledged knowing before departure that the left tank was almost empty and that a fuel tank switch was required. After the power loss, he immediately moved the fuel selector to the right tank and attempted to return to the runway. However, the engine failed to regain power.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and right wing lift struts as a result of the landing in the swamp.