Maule M7 N260BD accident near Palouse, Washington

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control on an ice- and snow-covered runway during taxi with a crosswind, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during a "medium speed taxi" on a runway in crosswind conditions, the airplane taxied over ice and drifted to the right. The pilot further reported that he corrected to the left, reduced throttle power, and the airplane taxied onto packed snow, "regaining lateral traction." The pilot attempted to correct with right rudder, but the airplane continued to veer to the left, exited the runway, and came to rest inverted.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and left wing lift struts.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA106 for the full record.