Probable cause
The pilot's delayed decision to execute a go-around maneuver while landing with excess airspeed into a short strip, which resulted in a runway overrun and subsequent loss of control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while landing on the 1,300 ft. long, gravel-covered runway, he inadvertently touched down with excess airspeed and did not have enough braking action to stop the airplane. The airplane subsequently impacted a snow berm at the end of the airstrip and nosed over which resulted in substantial damage to the left-wing struts. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC23LA028 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 4, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palmer, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Wick Air (14AK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule M-5-235C
- N-number
- N5644W
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1980
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Positioning
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.