Casualties unknown

1996-09-21: Mooney M20K (N3375X) — Islip, NY

Islip, NY, US

On September 21, 1996, a Mooney M20K (registration N3375X) was involved in an aviation accident near Islip, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power for undetermined reason(s), which resulted in an emergency/wheels-up 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

After takeoff from runway 33L, an airplane experienced an engine power loss at 200-300 feet. The pilot executed a left turn and performed a wheels-up landing on runway 10, sliding onto grass. Post-accident examination found fuel in the system and engine continuity.

Incident Overview

The pilot/owner of an airplane and a passenger departed on a local flight. After takeoff from runway 33L, at an altitude of 200 to 300 feet above the ground, the engine lost power. The pilot initiated a left turn back toward the airport and executed a wheels-up landing on the approach end of runway 10, heading in a westerly direction. The airplane subsequently slid onto the grass between the taxiway and runway.

Post-Accident Examination

An FAA Inspector examined the airplane. The inspection revealed fuel present in the airplane's fuel tanks, fuel lines, and fuel filter. Examination of the engine showed valve train continuity, compression in all cylinders, and spark from the magnetos.

Operational Details

The airplane had not been flown for approximately one month and was refueled just prior to the flight. The pilot, who is also an FAA certified mechanic, stated that he made a logbook entry of the airplane's annual inspection and signed it off the evening after the accident. However, he could not recall when the inspection was actually completed.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06802. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.