Casualties unknown

1989-11-18: Mooney M20E (N1253X) — Georgetown, SC

Georgetown, SC, US

On November 18, 1989, a Mooney M20E (registration N1253X) was involved in an aviation accident near Georgetown, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot lost control of the airplane during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During a first solo flight, a student pilot lost control of the airplane while landing, veered off the runway, and collided with a dirt berm, causing the aircraft to nose over. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.

Accident Overview

The student pilot reported losing control of the airplane during the landing phase of his first solo flight. The aircraft veered off the runway, and although control was regained, it subsequently collided with a dirt berm left from the construction of a drainage ditch. The impact caused the airplane to nose over.

Pilot Experience

The pilot reported 17 total flight hours within the previous 90 days and no flight hours within the 30 days prior to the accident. The flight was his first solo, indicating limited experience in solo operations.

Mechanical Status

According to the pilot's report, no mechanical malfunctions were experienced during the flight. The aircraft was operating normally prior to the loss of control.

Investigation Findings

The investigation focused on the pilot's actions during landing. The dirt berm, which was a result of ongoing drainage ditch construction, was noted as the obstacle struck after the runway excursion. The sequence of events involved a loss of control, veering off the runway, regaining control, and then colliding with the berm.

Probable cause

The student pilot lost control of the airplane during landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29741. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.