Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate compensation for the crosswind during landing, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot said that everything seemed normal when the airplane was approaching the runway. As the airplane crossed over the trees on final approach, it was lined up with the runway centerline. Then the wind shifted to a crosswind, and the airplane veered to the side of the runway. The pilot attempted to realign the airplane with the runway, and added power to perform a go-around. However, the airplane touched down briefly and then bounced. The right wing struck a tree, and the airplane then spun into a line of trees, substantially damaging both wings and the fuselage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12CA390 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 3, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Manzanita, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Nehalem Bay State (3S7)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule MXT-7-180A
- N-number
- N353LS
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.