(Pilot) Landed With A Quartering Tailwind On A Short Runway With Limited Go-Around Options

Location: Birdsboro, Pennsylvania Accident Number: ERA25LA152
Date & Time: March 20, 2025, 17:30 Local Registration: N4224L
Aircraft: Maule M7 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that he attempted to land at his home airstrip using a “limp windsock” to assess the wind conditions. Although aware of an approaching storm and the potential for shifting winds, he proceeded with the landing on runway 26. He landed with a quartering tailwind on a short runway with limited go-around options. The landing initially appeared normal; however, the wind suddenly shifted direction after touchdown and the airplane became unstable and flipped over. Both of the airplane’s wings were substantially damaged. The pilot later stated that he over-relied on the windsock and underestimated the impact of the changing weather. He reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s decision to land with a quartering tailwind in shifting wind conditions, which resulted in a loss of control and nose-over.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov