Casualties unknown

2006-06-08: Mooney M20K (N5699Y) — Robert A. Davis — Fresno, CA

Fresno, CA, US

On June 8, 2006, a Mooney M20K (registration N5699Y) operated by Robert A. Davis was involved in an aviation accident near Fresno, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Porpoise pilot induced oscillation on 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

During a touch-and-go landing practice, the aircraft tail struck the runway, leading to an aborted landing. The airplane porpoised, went off the runway, and hit two fences.

Incident Overview

The airplane collided with two fences after encountering a porpoise pilot induced oscillation on landing. The pilot was performing touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings. After completing one landing, he continued around the traffic pattern for a second attempt.

Sequence of Events

While on short final approach, the pilot had the airplane configured at an airspeed of 70 knots and retarded the throttle control to the idle position. The airplane's tail struck the runway surface, prompting the pilot to perform an aborted landing by adding full power. The airplane was configured with full wing flaps, landing gear down and locked, and speed brakes extended.

Outcome

The airplane began to porpoise down the runway. The pilot pulled back on the control wheel in an effort to become airborne. The airplane continued off the end of the runway and collided with a fence. It then crossed a road and came to rest after impacting another fence.

Additional Information

The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable cause

Porpoise pilot induced oscillation on landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060707X00896. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.