No fatalities

Pilot Loses Directional Control During Landing Roll, Aircraft Substantially Damaged (N9918T)

Ronan, MT, US

On September 29, 2006, a Maule M-6-235 (registration N9918T) was involved in an aviation accident near Ronan, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot failure to maintain directional control during landing roll. 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 landing roll, a tailwheel-equipped aircraft departed the runway after the pilot lost directional control. The aircraft rolled through a swale and its right wing struck the ground, causing substantial damage.

Accident Description

During the landing roll, the pilot of a tailwheel-equipped aircraft failed to maintain directional control. The aircraft departed the side of the runway. After exiting the runway, the aircraft rolled through a swale—a sunken area located between the runway and the taxiway. As the aircraft ascended from the swale, its right wing contacted the ground. This impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Pilot Statement

In a written statement, the pilot acknowledged the loss of control, stating, "I should have maintained better directional control of the aircraft on the runway..." This statement reflects the pilot's recognition of the failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

Investigation Findings

Investigators determined that there was no indication of a flight control malfunction. The absence of any mechanical issues suggests that the accident occurred solely due to the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

Probable cause

Pilot failure to maintain directional control during landing roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Sept 2006 Maule M-6-235 accident near Ronan, MT?

During landing roll, a tailwheel-equipped aircraft departed the runway after the pilot lost directional control. The aircraft rolled through a swale and its right wing struck the ground, causing substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Sept 2006 Maule M-6-235 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Sept 2006 involved a Maule M-6-235, registration N9918T, at Ronan, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Pilot failure to maintain directional control during landing roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061114X01666. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.