What happened
On November 26, 2018, a Mooney M20C, registration N113TA, crashed into a shallow ravine approximately 1/3-mile south of the Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF) in New Mexico. The flight was a positioning flight originating from Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR) in Arizona, with an intended destination of Colorado Plains Airport (AKO) in Colorado.
Prior to departure from Goodyear, the pilot performed several tasks, including installing a new battery and requesting the use of an air compressor. During taxiing at the FBO, a local pilot noted that an engine cowling access panel could not be latched, and the pilot subsequently used blue tape to secure both access panels. Additionally, the wing speed brakes were observed to be extended during taxi; the pilot stowed them after being prompted by the tower controller.
During the flight, the pilot exchanged text messages with a friend, including a message at 1836 stating he was over Colorado Springs and a request for the VOR frequency for AKO at 1914. A witness near the Santa Fe airport observed the aircraft twice shortly before the accident. The witness noted the airplane had no lights whatsoever visible and appeared to be on an abbreviated left downwind for runway 20. The witness observed the aircraft crossing the approach end of the runway and noted the engine sounded to be at a medium power setting, but could not see the aircraft during the actual impact.
At 1950, authorities received reports of the accident. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-impact fire, and the pilot sustained 1 fatal injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and maintenance records. The most recent annual inspection for the aircraft had been performed on July 7, 2013. Examination of the engine and airframe did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a pre-impact failure or malfunction. However, post-impact fire damaged portions of the aircraft to the extent that a complete examination of certain systems, such as the electrical system, was not possible.
Findings
- The pilot did not hold a current medical certificate, as his most recent application had been denied by the FAA in 2010.
- The aircraft did not have a current annual inspection, and no special flight permit had been requested for the flight.
- The aircraft's location at the time of the accident suggests the pilot may have become lost during the flight.
- The aircraft was likely near its fuel endurance limit at the time of the accident.