This March 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Maule M-8-235. Injuries: None. Location: Grangeville, Idaho. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot, who was attempting to land the tailwheel-equipped airplane, told investigators that he had a tailwheel endorsement and was current per the definition in the FAR/AIM. His first approach was fast and the plane bounced on touchdown. The pilot executed a go-around. On the second approach, the airplane drifted left and touched down left of the runway center line and bounced. The airplane swerved, and although the pilot attempted to regain control, it went off the runway and into a ditch. The pilot told investigators that while current he had not had much recent practice and should have refused PIC responsibilities for the flight.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop. The pilot’s lack of recent experience was a factor.
For more information: NTSB.gov
