Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare, which led to a bounced landing and a subsequent loss of control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he flared too high and the airplane landed hard and bounced. The airplane subsequently stalled and the left wing dropped. After impact, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway and skidded down an embankment. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12CA486 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 25, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Heber Springs, Arkansas
- Nearest airport
- Heber Springs Municipal (HBZ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20M
- N-number
- N9145L
- 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.