This July 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Mooney M20S. Injuries: None. Location: Mayfield, Ky. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: According to the pilot, the airplane bounced on landing on the 5,001-foot runway, so he aborted the landing. He applied full power, retracted the landing gear and the flaps. The airplane settled to the runway and skidded to a stop.
The pilot reported 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.
Probable cause: The pilot prematurely retracting the landing gear and flaps during the aborted landing.
For more information: NTSB.gov NTSB Identification: ERA09CA439
