On May 14, 1988, a Mooney M20F (registration N9654M) operated by Stanley W. Erwin was involved in an aviation accident near Middlesboro, KY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft loaded near max gross weight snap-rolled left after a shallow climb and turn, crashing next to a storage building. Investigation found no preimpact malfunctions; engine tested satisfactorily at rated power.
Incident Overview
Witnesses reported that the engine did not sound as if it was providing full power during takeoff. Approximately three-quarters of the 3,600-foot runway was used for the takeoff roll. After lift-off, the aircraft climbed at a shallow angle to about 250 to 300 feet above ground level. It then entered a shallow left bank. After turning about 90 degrees, the nose pitched up and the aircraft climbed about 100 feet. Subsequently, the aircraft snap-rolled to the left, entered a descent, and crashed next to a storage building in a residential area.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed that the aircraft was loaded to near its maximum gross weight limit. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found. The engine was satisfactorily test-run at rated power. The landing gear was found in the fully retracted position, and the flaps were found fully extended. Using the owner's manual, the takeoff distance with 15 degrees of flaps (takeoff flaps) was calculated to be 977 feet.