On October 26, 1997, a Mooney M20K (registration N252MY) was involved in an aviation accident near Ocean City, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient altitude. Factors in the accident were the rain and fog. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach at about 200 feet AGL, the pilot experienced a loss of altitude. Full power was added, but the aircraft struck a tree 250 feet from the runway threshold. The pilot reported wind shear; weather included heavy rain and fog.
Circumstances
During final approach to the runway, approximately 200 feet above ground level, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The pilot immediately applied full power in an attempt to arrest the descent. Despite this action, the aircraft struck a tree located about 250 feet from the approach end of the runway.
The pilot reported the presence of wind shear in the area. No evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunction was found during subsequent examination of the aircraft.
Weather Information
At the time of the accident, the airport manager reported heavy rain and fog. Winds recorded at an airport 12 miles northeast were from 080 degrees at 7 knots.