No fatalities

7 Oct 2017: MAULE M 7 235 — Manokatak, AK

Manokatak, AK, United States

On 7 Oct 2017, a MAULE M 7 235 was involved in an aviation accident near Manokatak, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusting wind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a beach, a wind gust pushed the airplane down; the right wing struck the beach first, followed by the left wing. The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane sustained substantial damage.

Accident Details

A pilot reported that during takeoff from a beach, a gust of wind pushed the airplane downward. The pilot was unable to arrest the descent. Subsequently, the right wing impacted the beach first, followed by the left wing. The left landing gear then collapsed, and the airplane came to a stop.

Damage to Aircraft

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings as a result of the impact.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Weather Conditions

According to the pilot, the weather conditions around the time of the accident included wind from 40 degrees at 10 knots, with wind gusts at 18 knots, and visibility of 10 miles. The direction from which the airplane was departing is unknown.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Effect on operation