Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for gusting wind conditions during takeoff, which resulted in the nose landing gear impacting the runway and the subsequent collapse of the nose landing gear.
NTSB analysis
Prior to departure, the pilot noted the wind from the right at 8-16 knots and gusting 16-21 knots. He added that just after the airplane got airborne, there was a downdraft, and the airplane bounced three times. The airplane then made three larger bounces, before the nose landing gear collapsed and the propeller contacted the runway. The airplane exited the runway and came to rest in the grass. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and left wing. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14CA503 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 12, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Largo Vista, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Lago Vista Rusty Allen (KRYW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule MT 7-260
- N-number
- N719WM
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2006
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.