Probable cause
The pilot failed to maintain directional control of the airplane during the touch and go landing.
NTSB analysis
The solo student pilot was applying power during a practice soft field touch and go landing when the aircraft veered to the left, departed the paved surface of the runway and struck an airfield sign. The weather was clear with winds 230 degrees at 4 knots. Examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the right aileron. The pilot stated there was no mechanical malfunction or failure of the airplane prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DEN08CA086 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 28, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Erie, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Erie Municipal (KEIK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20E
- N-number
- N79833
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.