What happened
On June 9, 2025, at approximately 0600 EDT, a Mooney M20R, registration N9166Z, was involved in an accident near New Port Richey, Florida. The aircraft was operating under Part 91 as a personal flight.
The pilot departed from Inverness Airport (INF) and flew for approximately 15 minutes toward Hidden Lake Airport (FA40). While attempting to land on runway 5, the aircraft floated during the landing flare. Due to discomfort regarding the remaining runway length, the pilot initiated a go-around by applying full power and setting the flaps for climb. At an altitude of approximately 50 feet, the engine stopped producing power immediately, without any preceding hesitation or coughing.
The pilot attempted to switch fuel tanks to restore power, but the engine remained non-functional, and the aircraft began to descend. The airplane impacted brush and muddy terrain in the runway overrun area before coming to rest in an upright position. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the aircraft following its recovery. The inspection confirmed substantial damage to the wings and fuselage, including damage to the right wing spar and multiple dents and buckles throughout the fuselage.