On July 28, 1988, a Mooney M20C (registration N6722U) operated by Gerald D. Hammon was involved in an aviation accident near Olathe, KS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, the pilot reported an engine failure. The engine restarted as the aircraft returned to the runway, then failed again during a turn. The aircraft stalled and collided with terrain. Investigation could not determine the cause.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot stated that the engine failed. He reported that he pumped the throttle, and the engine restarted at about the same time the aircraft returned to the runway. The engine restart propelled the aircraft back into the air. The pilot felt he had sufficient power to continue.
Upon reaching about 100 feet above ground level, the pilot began a 180-degree downwind turn. Approximately halfway through the turn, the engine failed again. The pilot said he tightened the turn, the stall horn sounded, and the aircraft stalled and collided with the terrain.
Post-Accident Investigation
Post-accident investigation was performed on the engine and fuel system. The cause of the engine failure was undetermined.