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Airplane Collides with Dirt Berm During Takeoff from Private Airstrip

Nashua, MT, United States

On September 8, 2013, a MAULE M-7-260C was involved in an aviation accident near Nashua, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a berm during the takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a private dirt airstrip, the airplane struck a dirt berm created by recent work and ground looped, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing.

Accident Details

According to a report from the pilot, the accident occurred during takeoff from a private dirt airstrip. The airplane collided with a dirt berm and subsequently ground looped. The berm was a result of recent work carried out in the area of the airstrip.

Aircraft Damage

The impact caused substantial damage to the fuselage and the right wing of the airplane. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no issues with the airplane prior to the accident. The collision with the berm was the primary event leading to the ground loop and damage.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Rough terrain

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Sept 2013 MAULE M-7-260C accident near Nashua, MT?

During takeoff from a private dirt airstrip, the airplane struck a dirt berm created by recent work and ground looped, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Sept 2013 MAULE M-7-260C accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Sept 2013 involved a MAULE M-7-260C, at Nashua, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a berm during the takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control.

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