Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing, which resulted in a ground loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, after touchdown, the airplane immediately turned hard right and that he then applied engine power. The airplane subsequently exited the runway while still turning right and came to rest on its left side. A postaccident examination of the airplane and the braking system revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
On September 10, 2011, about 0755 mountain standard time, a Maule M-4-220C, N40625, ground looped after landing at the Show Low Regional Airport (SOW), Show Low, Arizona. The pilot/owner operated the airplane under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. The pilot, the sole occupant, received minor injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the cross-country flight that departed a private airstrip in Roll, Arizona. A visual flight rules (VFR) flight plan had been filed. The flight departed from Roll at 0555 the morning of the accident.The pilot reported that after touchdown the airplane immediately turned hard to the right and he applied engine power. The airplane subsequently exited the runway still turning to the right and came to rest on its left side. The pilot's side door was broken, injuring the pilot's arm. A post accident examination of the airplane's brakes and flight controls revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.