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Pilot Reports Uncontrolled Descent and Roll During Approach Leading to Collision with Trees

Breckenridge, TX, United States

On October 14, 2019, a SOCATA TBM700 operated by Mt Margarett LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Breckenridge, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain bank control and adequate altitude during the approach, which resulted in his failure to maintain the runway heading and a subsequent collision with trees and terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During approach at 500 ft AGL and 81 knots, the pilot felt a sudden increase in descent rate. Despite adding power, the descent continued; a left roll developed. After corrective inputs, the pilot regained control but the airplane struck trees and terrain, then caught fire.

Event Summary

The pilot reported that during the approach phase of the flight, at approximately 500 feet above ground level and an indicated airspeed of 81 knots, he perceived a significant increase in the airplane's descent rate. In response, he increased engine power, but the high rate of descent persisted. He subsequently increased engine power further.

Loss of Control

A slow left roll developed following the increased power application. The pilot applied full right aileron and full right rudder to arrest the roll. Additionally, he reduced engine power, at which point the left roll ceased. The pilot was able to regain control of the airplane; however, the airplane's heading was 45 degrees left of the runway heading.

Collision and Damage

The airplane collided with mesquite trees and subsequently impacted the terrain. The impact caused a fire, and the pilot and passenger exited the airplane through the emergency exit. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the windscreens and fuselage.

Mechanical Condition

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

Contributing factors

PilotLateral/bank control — Not attained/maintainedAltitude — Not attained/maintainedEffect on operation
Controlled flight into terrain

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Oct 2019 SOCATA TBM700 accident near Breckenridge, TX?

During approach at 500 ft AGL and 81 knots, the pilot felt a sudden increase in descent rate. Despite adding power, the descent continued; a left roll developed. After corrective inputs, the pilot regained control but the airplane struck trees and terrain, then caught fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Oct 2019 SOCATA TBM700 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Oct 2019 involved a SOCATA TBM700, operated by Mt Margarett LLC, at Breckenridge, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain bank control and adequate altitude during the approach, which resulted in his failure to maintain the runway heading and a subsequent collision with trees and terrain.

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