![THE MAULE FAMILY APPROACHABLE AIRCRAFT](https://magarticles.magzter.com/articles/4975/796535/619cdf6a1cdd5/THE-MAULE-FAMILYAPPROACHABLE-AIRCRAFT.jpg)
Before long, our wish list becomes as overloaded as a college student’s plate at an all-you-can-eat buffet, and we eventually realize that compromises must be made. STOL aircraft rarely provide long-distance speed and range, for example, and certificated types less than 30 years old are typically fairly expensive.
The Maule family of aircraft, on the other hand, seems to provide most of these strengths with few compromises. Takeoff rolls of 300 to 500 feet are routine, and yet many provide cruise speed and range that approach even some types with retractable gear. Four adults and full tanks can be carried aloft at the same time. For just over $100,000, it’s possible to buy an example that’s newer than the first Apple iPods.
Surely, I thought, there must be a catch. So, I took a dive into the world of Maules to investigate further and evaluate their suitability as an approachable aircraft.
Design
When company founder B.D. Maule designed the M-4 in the 1950s, he emphasized a few key values, including utility, durability and short-field capability. The initial examples rolled out of the factory in the early 1960s, and this basic formula has remained largely unchanged.
This story is from the December 2021 edition of Flying.
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This story is from the December 2021 edition of Flying.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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The Temple of Speed
Reno entices even this altitude-oriented pilot.
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Flat Sixes
Fanatical artisans
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Blue over Green, Tent in Between
I’m old , I’m cranky. Why do I keep air-camping?
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The product lineup gains large-cabin and ultralong-range mounts.
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Embrace the challenge of mastering a new machine.
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Fuhggedaboutit
Fifty-plus years of f lying forgetfulness
![THE MAULE FAMILY APPROACHABLE AIRCRAFT](https://reseuro.magzter.com/100x125/articles/4975/796535/619cdf6a1cdd5/crp_THE-MAULE-FAMILYAPPROACHABLE-AIRCRAFT.jpg)
THE MAULE FAMILY APPROACHABLE AIRCRAFT
Choose your mount —the Maules do it all.
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Sisters
“ Women certainly have the courage and tenacity required for long flights.” —Mildred Doran
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INSIDE OUT OR OUTSIDE IN?
What kind of pilot should you be?
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THE FLAGSHIP CJ JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT BETTER.