Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
During landing, the airplane drifted right of the runway centerline. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, and the airplane exited the runway and impacted a tree and a parked golfcart. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot noted that he had limited function of his left leg and was unable to apply sufficient left rudder input to maintain directional control.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA289 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 8, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Frankston, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Aero Estates Airport (T25)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20A
- N-number
- N8335E
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1959
- 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.