N317KD

N317KD is a Maule M-7-260C, a single-engine piston aircraft operated by SILVA RONALD C. SkyMeter has tracked 80 flights totalling 129 hours of airtime via ADS-B. Service window in our records spans 441 days. The Maule M-7-260C has a maximum takeoff weight of 2,500 lb, light wake category.

About the Maule M-7-260C

The Maule M-7 is a rugged American short takeoff and landing (STOL) taildragger built by Maule Air in Moultrie, Georgia, since the 1980s. Designed for backcountry operations, the M-7 series features a welded steel tube fuselage, fabric covering, and a conventional gear configuration optimized for unimproved strips. The 260-horsepower variant delivers exceptional climb performance and can operate from grass, gravel, or dirt surfaces as short as 300 feet, making it a favorite among bush pilots, hunters, and remote-area operators who need to reach places where pavement ends.

With its high wing, excellent visibility, and docile handling, the M-7 balances utility with forgiving flight characteristics, though pilots must respect its tailwheel nature and strong engine torque on takeoff. The type remains in production today, a testament to its enduring appeal in the niche world of serious backcountry aviation. SkyMeter has tracked flights across airframes and operators, with the largest observed operator.