On October 2, 1995, a Mooney M20E (registration N79820) was involved in an aviation accident near Long Beach, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power for undeternined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While flying over the ocean, the pilot reported an engine power loss. After a brief restart, the engine failed again and the pilot ditched the aircraft. Two passengers were rescued; the pilot and aircraft were not recovered.
Incident Sequence
While flying over the ocean, the pilot communicated with the radar sector controller, reporting that the engine had lost power. Shortly thereafter, the pilot stated that the engine had restarted but was not operating smoothly. Moments later, the pilot reported a second loss of engine power and indicated an intention to ditch the airplane in the ocean.
Search and Rescue
The sector controller immediately initiated search and rescue procedures. Two passengers were successfully rescued. However, neither the airplane nor the pilot was recovered.
Pre-Accident Information
A fixed-base operator reported that on the evening before the accident, the airplane's right fuel tank was almost full. The left fuel tank was between one-quarter and one-half full. The pilot had purchased the airplane approximately two weeks before the accident. It could not be determined whether the pilot had received any instruction or a checkout in the airplane.