Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN09CA104

Edgewood, NM, USA

Aircraft #1

N1216X

MOONEY M20C

Analysis

The private pilot was at a cruise altitude of 12,000 feet in instrument meteorological conditions on an instrument-flight-rules flight plan when he experienced a total loss of engine power 6 minutes after switching fuel tanks. The pilot initiated an emergency descent and broke out of the clouds at approximately 300 feet above the ground and landed in a clearing with the landing gear retracted. The airplane slid approximately 300 feet and impacted a fence. The pilot and his two passengers were not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Factual Information

The private pilot was at a cruise altitude of 12,000 feet in instrument meteorological conditions on an instrument flight rules flight plan when he experienced a total loss of engine power 6 minutes after switching fuel tanks. The pilot initiated an emergency descent and broke out of the clouds at approximately 300 feet above the ground and landed in a clearing with the landing gear retracted. The airplane slid approximately 300 feet and impacted a fence. The pilot and his two passengers were not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Probable Cause and Findings

A total loss of engine power while at cruise altitude for undetermined reasons.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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