Probable cause
A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that approximately 20 minutes after takeoff the engine began running rough. The pilot initiated a forced landing to a nearby field, and during the landing roll, the airplane nosed over in the soft, uneven ground. After the accident, the pilot examined the engine and airframe and reported finding no indication as to why the engine ran rough.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09LA139 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 3, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Calexico, California
- Nearest airport
- Calexico (KCXL)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule M-5
- N-number
- N9166E
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
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.