On July 14, 1990, a Mooney M20F (registration N6456Q) operated by B & L Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Torrington, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A PARTIAL LOSS OF POWER DUE TO A FAILED EXHAUST VALVE. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot experienced partial power loss during climb, turned back, but landed across the 75-foot wide runway. The aircraft crossed a taxiway and came to rest on a hill. Postaccident investigation found a broken exhaust valve.
Incident Details
A private pilot initiated takeoff and attempted to climb. During the climb, the engine apparently produced only partial power. The pilot turned back toward the runway, but the aircraft lost altitude, dragged one wing on the terrain, and landed across the 75-foot wide runway. The airplane continued across the runway and a taxiway, skidded up a hill, and came to rest.
Damage
The fuselage, both wings, the nose gear, and the left main gear were damaged in the occurrence.
Investigation
A postaccident investigation revealed a broken exhaust valve in the number one cylinder.