No fatalities

19 Aug 2020: Maule M5 235C — Olathe, KS

Olathe, KS, United States

On 19 Aug 2020, a Maule M5 235C was involved in an aviation accident near Olathe, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's incorrect aileron input and inexperience with tailwheel airplanes led to a loss of directional control after touchdown. 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

A tailwheel airplane experienced a ground loop after touchdown when a wind gust caused a left turn. The pilot reported incorrect aileron input and inexperience, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing.

Accident Details

The pilot of a tailwheel-configured airplane reported that the landing was initially normal, with the airplane touching down on the runway without any issues. Immediately after touchdown, the airplane encountered a sudden wind gust and veered left. The pilot applied aileron and rudder inputs in an attempt to correct the deviation, but the airplane continued to turn. It eventually rotated approximately 180 degrees and came to rest in an upright position.

Pilot Assessment

In post-accident statements, the pilot acknowledged that his aileron input was inappropriate and worsened the left turn. He further indicated that he lacked experience operating tailwheel aircraft and characterized the incident as "100% a case of pilot error." The pilot also confirmed that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions observed before the accident that would have interfered with normal operation.

Damage Inspection

The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the aileron.

Probable cause

The pilot's incorrect aileron input and inexperience with tailwheel airplanes led to a loss of directional control after touchdown.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained