Pilot Debrief

MAULE M 6-235 near Fairbanks, AK — 2016-06-11

Final reportANC16CA031
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Date
2016-06-11
Location
Fairbanks, AK, USA
Aircraft
MAULE M 6-235
Registration
N5650J
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to land on terrain unsuitable for a wheel equipped airplane.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that while attempting to assess the suitability of a gravel-covered ridge top for future landings in his tail-wheel equipped airplane, he attempted a full flap landing on the main wheels. After bouncing twice, he aborted the landing and adjusted the flaps to 40 degrees and applied full power. During the subsequent takeoff, he felt something hit the airplane, but elected to continue the takeoff and proceed to his final destination. During a postflight inspection, the pilot discovered substantial damage to the lower cross member structure of the fuselage. The pilot stated there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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