Pilot Debrief

MAULE M-7-235 near Wasilla, AK — 2026-04-03

Investigation ongoingANC26LA029
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Date
2026-04-03
Location
Wasilla, AK, USA
Airport
6AK9
Aircraft
MAULE M-7-235
Registration
N93ML
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

NTSB has not published a probable cause for this accident yet. Preliminary reports describe what happened; the cause is determined later, often 12–24 months after the event.

NTSB narrative

On April 3, 2026, at 1300 Alaska daylight time, a Maule M 7 235 airplane, N93ML, was substantially damaged during an accident near Wasilla, Alaska. The pilot and one passenger were not injured. The airplane was operated as a personal flight under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. According to the pilot, he taxied to the runway, allowed the engine to warm up, completed a full run up, and cycled the propeller at least five times. He reported that during the takeoff roll, engine power appeared normal. However, shortly after rotation, he experienced a perceived reduction in engine power and believed the engine was no longer producing sufficient power for continued climb performance. The pilot stated that rejecting the takeoff was not an option. In an effort to clear obstacles, he selected one notch of flaps. The airplane subsequently impacted trees approximately 1,500 feet from the beginning of the takeoff roll. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The wreckage was recovered from the accident site, and a detailed post accident examination of the airplane is pending.

Preliminary NTSB coding

  • Loss of engine power (partial) · Initial climb
  • Loss of Thrust on Takeoff
View NTSB preliminary report

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