Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a fence.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during takeoff from a rough gravel airstrip, the airplane veered left and exited the runway surface despite his control inputs. Subsequently, the airplane veered right, and traveled down sloping terrain and impacted a fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and left elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA361 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 25, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Elk River, Idaho
- Nearest airport
- Elk River (ID85)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule MX-7-180A
- N-number
- N31876
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1995
- 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.