What happened
On 17 June 2023, a MOONEY M 20K 231, registration N-192JM, was conducting a private VFR flight from Faro Airport, Portugal, to Casarrubios del Monte Aerodrome in Spain. During the approach to runway 26, the pilot performed two missed approaches due to high speed and runway occupancy by another aircraft.
On the third approach, the aircraft touched down on the runway but failed to settle. The aircraft made contact with the asphalt four separate times, lifting back into the air between each touchdown. Realizing there was insufficient distance remaining to stop, the pilot applied full throttle in an attempt to become airborne again. This maneuver caused the aircraft to veer left, exiting the runway with approximately 70 meters of asphalt remaining. The aircraft then struck a metal structure located near the aerodrome's perimeter fence.
The investigation
The investigation examined RADAR traces, aerodrome camera footage, and the aircraft's wreckage. Analysis of the video footage confirmed that the aircraft's initial touchdown occurred approximately 320 meters past the runway threshold, rather than at the threshold as stated by the pilot.
Investigators determined that the aircraft's speed during the rollout was approximately 50.54 knots, which was consistent with the aircraft's flight manual and the pilot's account. The investigation also noted that the pilot did not maintain elevator control to keep the aircraft on the ground and did not reduce engine power during the multiple touchdowns. Furthermore, the area where the aircraft impacted was found to contain scattered scrap metal within the airfield's safety zone.
Findings
- The pilot performed three approach attempts before the final landing attempt.
- The aircraft experienced four distinct touchdowns on the runway without settling.
- The pilot applied full power during the landing rollout, contributing to the aircraft becoming airborne again.
- The incorrect execution of the landing manoeuvre caused the aircraft to depart the runway.
- The presence of scattered scrap metal near the runway end posed a significant hazard to aircraft during excursions.