No fatalities

Private Pilot's Low Flyover Ends in Collision with Trees During Go-Around (N4564B)

Kenai, AK, US

On September 6, 2003, a Maule M-6-235 (registration N4564B) was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance during an intentional go-around, which resulted in an in-flight collision with trees. 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

A private pilot performing a low pass to inspect an off-airport site struck trees during a go-around after applying full engine power and raising the nose. The aircraft sustained structural damage to the fuselage, wings, and empennage.

Flight Details

The private certificated pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to inspect the surface of an off-airport location. The plan involved flying low over the site, executing a go-around, and then deciding whether to land based on the appearance of the terrain.

Accident Sequence

During the approach, the airplane passed over the approach end of the site. At that point, the pilot applied full engine power and raised the nose in an attempt to climb. However, the airplane failed to clear the trees located at the end of the site and collided with them.

Damage

As a result of the collision, the airplane sustained structural damage to the fuselage, wings, and empennage.

Mechanical Condition

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Sept 2003 Maule M-6-235 accident near Kenai, AK?

A private pilot performing a low pass to inspect an off-airport site struck trees during a go-around after applying full engine power and raising the nose. The aircraft sustained structural damage to the fuselage, wings, and empennage.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Sept 2003 Maule M-6-235 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Sept 2003 involved a Maule M-6-235, registration N4564B, at Kenai, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance during an intentional go-around, which resulted in an in-flight collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031015X01729. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.