Casualties unknown

2007-07-15: Mooney M20J (N4785H) — Eden Prairie, MN

Eden Prairie, MN, US

On July 15, 2007, a Mooney M20J (registration N4785H) was involved in an aviation accident near Eden Prairie, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the airplane for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident were the embankment and the fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff rotation, the airplane failed to develop lift with a stuck rudder, yawed left at 8-10 feet, settled off runway, struck an embankment, and hit a fence. Post-accident inspection found no flight control anomalies.

Event Description

A pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, upon reaching rotation speed, the airplane did not properly develop lift. The rudder appeared to be stuck in a full deflected position. As the airplane lifted off, it yawed to the left at an altitude of approximately 8 to 10 feet above the runway. Subsequently, the airplane settled to the ground off the left side of the runway, where it contacted an embankment. The nose gear sheared off during the impact. The airplane continued up the embankment and came to rest after contacting a fence.

Post-Accident Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the airplane was conducted. The examination failed to reveal any anomalies with the flight control system. The reason for the reported stuck rudder could not be determined from the inspection.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions at the time of the accident were reported as calm winds.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070720X00965. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.