N3217V accident

On October 17, 2026, about 1030 Pacific daylight time, a Maule M-7-260, N3217V, was substantially damaged during a runway excursion while landing at The Sea Ranch Airport (CA51), Sea Ranch, California. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot had recently retrieved the airplane from a maintenance facility following an annual inspection and associated maintenance. During the initial engine run-up, the right wheel brake remained engaged after he released the parking brake. He re-engaged the parking brake and released it again, after which both brakes released normally. He then taxied the airplane and completed the flight to CA51 without further reported brake anomalies.

According to the pilot, after touchdown, the airplane pulled strongly to the right. The pilot applied the left brake in an attempt to counter the turn, but was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane departed the right side of the runway, traveled through a drainage swale, and struck an embankment.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the right-wing struts. The pilot reported that he believed the right parking brake may have re-engaged after he checked the brake pedals before landing.

The airplane was retained for further examination.