Casualties unknown

1989-02-23: Mooney M20K (N94276) — Performance Aircraft, Inc. — Incline Village, NV

Incline Village, NV, US

On February 23, 1989, a Mooney M20K (registration N94276) operated by Performance Aircraft, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Incline Village, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE FUEL SYSTEM WHEN TROUBLESHOOTING SURGING FUEL PRESSURE. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS SNOW CONDITIONS WHICH IMPAIRED THE PILOT'S ABILITY TO MAKE A PROPER FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after leveling at cruise, the pilot noted a fuel flow loss. The engine died after fuel flow dropped below 6 GPH with the boost pump off. The aircraft descended into heavy snow, struck a tree, rolled inverted, and hit the ground. Post-accident testing found no mechanical malfunction.

Sequence of Events

Shortly after the pilot leveled off the aircraft at cruise altitude, a loss of fuel flow was observed. The pilot activated the fuel boost pump, and fuel flow returned to normal. However, when the boost pump was turned off, fuel flow decreased to below 6 gallons per hour, and the engine subsequently stopped running.

Attempted Restart

The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. The aircraft then descended below a layer of clouds and entered heavy snow showers.

Impact

The aircraft struck a tree, after which it rolled inverted and then impacted the ground.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, the engine was started and operated in a test cell. No mechanical malfunction was found during the test run.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27804. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.