Probable cause
A total loss of engine power while at cruise altitude for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot was at a cruise altitude of 12,000 feet in instrument meteorological conditions on an instrument-flight-rules flight plan when he experienced a total loss of engine power 6 minutes after switching fuel tanks. The pilot initiated an emergency descent and broke out of the clouds at approximately 300 feet above the ground and landed in a clearing with the landing gear retracted. The airplane slid approximately 300 feet and impacted a fence. The pilot and his two passengers were not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA104 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 26, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Edgewood, New Mexico
- Nearest airport
- Sandia Airpark (1N1)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20C
- N-number
- N1216X
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.