On October 12, 2003, a Mooney 20F (registration N7127V) was involved in an aviation accident near Scottsdale, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane veered left after touchdown, became airborne again, then landed on a taxiway and struck a runway sign. Post-accident examination revealed no mechanical malfunction.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred during the landing roll when the airplane veered off the runway and collided with an airport sign. According to the pilot, upon touchdown the airplane immediately veered to the left. The pilot then added power, causing the airplane to become airborne again. It subsequently landed on a taxiway and collided with a runway sign.
Damage and Examination
The main spar was damaged during the accident sequence. A mechanic examined the airplane and did not find any mechanical malfunction that would have resulted in directional control problems. The pilot also stated that there was no control interference from the front seat passenger.
Investigation Findings
No additional causal factors were identified in the investigation. The sequence of events involved a loss of directional control during the landing roll, leading to the collision with airport signage.