Casualties unknown

2001-05-11: Maule Air Inc. M-7-235 (N5669S) — Everett, WA

Everett, WA, US

On May 11, 2001, a Maule Air Inc. M-7-235 (registration N5669S) was involved in an aviation accident near Everett, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A system failure for undetermined reasons while on final approach. The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft was a factor. 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

On final approach, the aircraft drifted left despite rudder and aileron inputs. A go-around attempt led to loss of directional control, resulting in an off-airport landing with left wing low and nose down. No mechanical failure was found.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported experiencing a loss of directional control during a go-around attempt, which culminated in an off-airport landing. According to the pilot, while on final approach for landing, the aircraft began to drift to the left. The pilot applied rudder correction, but the drift persisted. Aileron input also failed to stop the leftward movement, and the aircraft entered a left circular turn.

Go-Around Attempt

Deciding to go around, the pilot added power. However, this caused the aircraft to yaw further left, even with full right rudder and aileron inputs. The pilot stated he had no directional control and chose to land off-airport. During the turn, the left wing continued to drop, and the aircraft lost altitude.

Landing and Inspection

The pilot located an open field and landed with the left wing low and the nose down. A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector responded to the accident site and later examined the aircraft after recovery. The inspector reported inspecting the flight control system but found no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction.

Conclusion

No probable cause was determined from the available information. The incident highlights a situation where control inputs were ineffective, and no mechanical issues were identified.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010522X00992. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.