Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during a go-around from unsuitable terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was attempting an off-airport landing in a tailwheel-equipped airplane to a location that he had not previously landed. He stated that just prior to touchdown he realized it was not a suitable landing area and he initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the airplane touched down on soft ground and tall grass, which caused the airplane to sink into the ground and nose over. The right lift strut was substantially damaged.
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA388 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 7, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Brazoria, Texas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule MX7
- N-number
- N897DC
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1993
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.