On September 12, 2007, a Mooney M20C (registration N6731U) was involved in an aviation accident near Allentown, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot landing a Mooney M20C after a solo cross-country flight experienced multiple bounces and a wing drop, resulting in the aircraft departing the runway and striking a sign.
Accident Details
A student pilot flying a Mooney M20C was returning to land at his home airport following a solo cross-country flight. During the approach, a crosswind was present. The airplane touched down and bounced twice. After the third touchdown, the left wing rose while the right wing dropped. The pilot reported that he "didn't straighten [the airplane] out correctly." Subsequently, the airplane departed the right side of the runway, and the right wing struck a sign.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The pilot did not report any mechanical abnormalities associated with the airplane. No further information about the pilot or aircraft was provided.
Investigation
No mechanical issues were identified as contributing factors. The event occurred during a solo flight, and the pilot was the sole occupant.