Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a berm during the takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff from a private dirt airstrip, the airplane collided with a dirt berm and ground looped. The berm was a result of recent work in the area of the airstrip. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the right wing. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA403 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 8, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Nashua, Montana
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule M-7-260C
- N-number
- N5515V
- 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.