The Maule M-5 refined Maule's STOL formula with more power and capability — a rugged four-seat taildragger that remains a favorite for backcountry, float, and utility flying.
Key takeaways
- Improved STOL performance over the earlier M-4.
- Float and tundra capable: a versatile backcountry hauler.
- Tailwheel skills and mods factor into insurance and value.
About the Maule M-5
The M-5 is a four-seat STOL taildragger with more power than the M-4, offering strong short-field and off-airport performance. Floats and tundra tires are common. As with any working backcountry airplane, condition and any modifications drive value.
| Specification | Maule M-5 |
|---|---|
| Type | STOL taildragger (4-seat) |
| Engine | Lycoming (varies, ~210+ hp) |
| Cruise | ~130 knots typical |
Typical used price (2026): ~$60,000–$150,000. Condition, avionics, and engine time drive value within that range.
Is the Maule M-5 Right for You?
The Maule M-5 suits owners who want to fly off-airport — backcountry strips, gravel bars, and, on floats, water. It rewards tailwheel and off-airport skills, and its capability comes with mission-specific insurance and maintenance considerations.
Ownership & Operating Costs
- Fuel: moderate, depending on engine.
- Insurance: tailwheel- and operation-sensitive; off-airport and float work cost more.
- Gear: budget for the wear that comes with rough-field operations.
- Engine reserve: set aside per flight hour toward overhaul.
For a full framework across models, see our aircraft ownership cost guide.
What to Check When Buying
Focus on the gear and tailwheel, the wear that comes with off-airport use, engine time, and any float or STOL modifications (document them). A type-experienced pre-buy is important on a hard-working airframe.
Financing a Maule M-5
A Maule M-5 finances as a piston single, with tailwheel and off-airport operations shaping insurance more than the loan itself; document any float or STOL modifications, as they affect value. Jaken Aviation is a brokerage, not a lender — we shop your loan across a national network of aviation lenders.
Prices, specifications, and financing figures are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tailwheel time for the Maule M-5?
For a tailwheel backcountry airplane, insurers expect a tailwheel endorsement and time; a pilot new to tailwheel should plan for training, which also helps insurance.
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