Casualties unknown

Airplane Noses Over After Runway Excursion During Crosswind Landing (N9139E)

Show Low, AZ, US

On July 8, 2002, a Maule M-5-235C (registration N9139E) was involved in an aviation accident near Show Low, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions and failure to maintain directional control. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a crosswind landing on runway 21, an airplane veered off the right side, became airborne during attempted go-around, struck an embankment, and nosed over. The pilot observed winds from 130° at less than 15 knots before landing.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during a landing attempt on runway 21. The pilot had observed winds from approximately 130 degrees at less than 15 knots during an overflight of the runway. Despite crosswind conditions, the pilot described the approach as normal. During the landing roll, the airplane suddenly veered to the right side of the runway. The pilot attempted to execute a go-around by adding full power. The airplane became momentarily airborne, and the right main landing gear collided with a rising embankment located on the right side of the runway. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted.

Pilot Actions

The pilot elected to land on runway 21 after observing the wind conditions. He stated the approach was normal. When the airplane veered, he applied full power in an attempt to go around. The airplane became airborne briefly before the right main landing gear struck the embankment.

Investigation Findings

An FAA inspector examined the skid marks and ground scars at the accident site. The inspector reported that it appeared the airplane had initially landed solely on the right main landing gear, with the nose pointing to the right, off the runway. The airplane continued off the right side of the runway after landing in that configuration. The tail wheel sustained damage that prevented the inspector from determining if any mechanical malfunctions had occurred prior to the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 2002 Maule M-5-235C accident near Show Low, AZ?

During a crosswind landing on runway 21, an airplane veered off the right side, became airborne during attempted go-around, struck an embankment, and nosed over. The pilot observed winds from 130° at less than 15 knots before landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 2002 involved a Maule M-5-235C, registration N9139E, at Show Low, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions and failure to maintain directional control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020712X01105. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.