Probable cause
The pilot’s loss of directional control after an encounter with a wind gust.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that shortly after touching down in the tail wheel equipped airplane, as the tail was settling the airplane encountered a gust of wind from the right. The right wing lifted and the pilot was unable to maintain directional control, which resulted in a ground loop. The left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions that contributed to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA276 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 6, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Scappoose, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Scappoose Airport (KSPB)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Maule M4
- N-number
- N9849M
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- 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.