On December 22, 1991, a Mooney M-20C (registration N7866V) operated by Satin, Glenn was involved in an aviation accident near Plant City, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER (NONMECHANICAL) FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THIS RESULTED IN A FORCED LANDING TO AN UNSUITABLE LANDING AREA AND COLLISION WITH TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a VFR instructional flight, the aircraft suffered a total loss of engine power at 250 feet AGL. A forced landing was made to unsuitable terrain, colliding with trees and the ground, causing substantial damage. No injuries occurred.
Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a private pilot student were conducting a dual instructional flight under visual flight rules (VFR). During climbout at approximately 250 feet above ground level, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The reason for the power loss was not determined.
Forced Landing and Impact
The pilot executed a forced landing to an area deemed unsuitable for a safe landing. On the landing approach, the airplane collided with trees and subsequently struck the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Occupant Status
Neither the flight instructor nor the student pilot sustained any injuries.
Engine Examination
The engine was removed from the aircraft and transported to an authorized repair station for evaluation. It was placed in a test stand and operated at full power without any anomalies noted. The engine ran normally during the test.