On August 29, 2005, a Maule M-5-210C (registration N51623) was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during the landing roll, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent collapse of the main landing gear. Factors associated with the accident were a crosswind, and a steep drop-off. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot landing on a ridgeline reported a gust of wind lifted the right wing; despite applying full right aileron and heavy braking, the airplane was pushed left down a slope, collapsing both main landing gear.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot was performing a landing on a ridgeline. According to the pilot's statement, he was correcting for a right crosswind during the approach.
Sequence of Events
During the landing roll, a gust of wind lifted the right wing of the airplane. The pilot reported that he immediately applied full right aileron in conjunction with heavy braking in an attempt to maintain control. Subsequently, the wind pushed the airplane to the left, down a steep slope on the north side of the landing site.
Damage
As a result of the event, both main landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained structural damage to the fuselage and both wings.
Pilot Observations
The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.