MOONEY M20S near Mayfield, KY — 2009-07-28

Probable cause

The pilot prematurely retracting the landing gear and flaps during the aborted landing.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he aborted the landing on the 5,001-foot-long by 100-foot-wide runway after two bounces. He applied full power, retracted the landing gear and the flaps, and the airplane settled to the runway. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway, struck runway lights, and substantially damaged the underside of the airframe. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane, and when asked how this accident could have been prevented, explained that a positive rate of climb should have been established before the gear and flaps were retracted.

NTSB coding

• Runway excursion · Landing

Evidence available

• Photos
• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Federal Aviation Administration Inspector Statementinterview
• Digital Photograph Provided by FAA. View Showing Damage to Underside of Airplane.photos

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