MOONEY M-20G near Monroeville, PA — 2011-06-12

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot elected to conduct a soft field takeoff due to rough irregularities in the runway. After fully extending the flaps, the pilot initiated the takeoff run, and the airplane became airborne within 200 to 300 feet. The pilot had difficulty keeping the airplane's pitch attitude low, and upon reaching tree-height the airplane stalled. The airplane descended and rolled to the left. The pilot was unable to arrest the descent, and the airplane impacted the ground and was subsequently consumed by a postimpact fire.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control in flight · Takeoff
• Loss of Control on Takeoff/Initial Climb
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• Photos
• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• FAA Inspector Statmentother
• Pilot Inerview Summaryother
• Pilot Statmentother
• Pittsburg Allegheney (AGC) Meteorological Conditionsother
• Photo 1 - Overview of Wreckage (Courtesy of FAA)photos

Related mishaps

• CESSNA 170B

  2026-07-10 · Hartwell, GA

• CASSUTT IIIM

  2026-07-05 · Odessa, TX

• CESSNA 172H

  2026-05-25 · Berryville, AR

• COMMANDER AIRCRAFT CO 114TC

  2026-05-23 · Woodruff, WI

• BELL 206-L4

  2026-05-23 · Cedar City, UT

• CESSNA 172S

  2026-05-18 · Harrison, NY