What happened
On 25 October 2005, a Maule MXT-7-180, registration G-BZDT, was conducting a private flight near Portadown, Northern Ireland. The pilot intended to inspect a local grass landing strip via a low-level overflight. While descending to approximately 100 ft agl over the runway threshold, the pilot observed surface water and a 15 kt crosswind, prompting a decision to divert to Belfast International Airport.
During the transition to the diversion, the aircraft entered an area of severe turbulence caused by downdraughts near trees and buildings. In response to the turbulence, the pilot applied full power and selected a positive pitch attitude. This maneuver caused the aircraft to lose height, leading to a left wing drop, a nose-low attitude, and the left wing and propeller striking the ground. The aircraft cartwheeled onto its right wing before stopping against trees. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was briefly unconscious.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the flight conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation focused on the aircraft's configuration and the aerodynamic response to the pilot's inputs. Analysis of the wreckage revealed that the flaps were found in the raised position. The investigation also considered how the aircraft's configuration might have contributed to the loss of control during the encounter with the downdraughts.