What happened
On June 25, 2022, a Mooney M20J, registration N4267H, was involved in a fatal accident near Kerrville, Texas. The flight began at Kerrville Municipal Airport (ERV), where the pilot and passenger had arrived earlier that day. The aircraft had recently undergone an annual inspection and had not been flown since that maintenance was completed in December 2021.
Following takeoff from runway 12, ADS-B data showed the aircraft climbing to approximately 1,775 feet MSL (about 150 feet AGL) while traveling east-northeast. The aircraft then began a 180-degree left turn. Witnesses observed the airplane flying erratically and noted that the landing gear was extended. One witness reported hearing a radio transmission indicating the pilot was experiencing landing gear trouble and was returning to the airport.
As the aircraft transitioned from the downwind leg to the base leg of the traffic pattern, it maintained a low altitude. During a steep left bank, the aircraft descended into a tree line, resulting in a large fire. The impact destroyed the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found that the landing gear actuator was in a position consistent with the gear being extended at impact. The engine showed no evidence of catastrophic internal failure, and the aircraft was not heavily loaded, suggesting it had sufficient power to reach pattern altitude.
An examination of the pilot's medical records revealed that his FAA medical certificate had expired nearly 21 years prior to the accident. Additionally, his last recorded flight review was in August 2004. Toxicology reports identified sub-therapeutic levels of the antihistamine doxylamine, as well as traces of the antidepressant amitriptyline, in the pilot's system.
Findings
- The pilot failed to maintain control of the aircraft during a turn on the base leg, leading to an aerodynamic stall.
- The pilot lacked recent flight training and had not completed a flight review in approximately 18 years.
- The pilot was attempting to return to the airport, likely due to landing gear issues, while flying at a very low altitude.