Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff in gusting wind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during takeoff from a beach, a wind gust pushed the airplane down, and he was unable to arrest the descent. Subsequently, the right wing impacted the beach first, then the left wing, the left landing gear collapsed, and the airplane came to a stop.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
According to the pilot, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 40° at 10 knots, gusting to 18 knots, and visibility was 10 miles. It is unknown from which direction the airplane was departing.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA006 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 7, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Manokatak, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule M 7
- N-number
- N81818
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1987
- 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.