Maule M-4 N2039U accident near Jerome, Idaho

Probable cause

The failure of both pilots to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The certificated flight instructor and student pilot were departing runway 26 on an instructional flight in a tail wheel equipped airplane. The certified flight instructor (CFI), who was seated in the right seat, reported that the student pilot was manipulating the flight controls during the takeoff roll and the airplane drifted left of runway centerline. The student pilot corrected the situation, but the airplane began to track right of runway center line and the CFI took the flight controls. The flight instructor stated he applied left rudder and brake, but the airplane continued to track to the right and eventually exited the right shoulder of the runway. After exiting the runway, the airplane collided with a large rock and the left main landing gear strut collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. Following the accident, the CFI reported that the brakes functioned properly during the preflight, however, appeared to have not been working during the accident sequence. A representative from the FAA examined the airplane and reported that the brakes were damaged and functional testing was not possible. The pilot reported that the wind was from the west at 4 knots.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for SEA08CA086 for the full record.