Mooney M20M N1031M accident near College Park, Maryland

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper flare, which resulted in a bounced landing, his improper airplane configuration during the attempted go-around, which resulted in the airplane not climbing, and his subsequent landing off the side of the runway.

NTSB analysis

During approach in light and variable wind conditions, the airplane cleared the trees at the approach end of the runway and descended to the touchdown point, where it bounced upon landing. The pilot then aborted the landing by applying full engine power and remaining in ground effect; however, he did not retract the landing gear because he saw no indication of climb and did not engage the flap switch over concern that the flaps would retract past the takeoff setting and reduce lift. The pilot’s failure to retract the flaps to the takeoff setting likely resulted in reduced airplane climb performance. After a few seconds in ground effect without the airplane climbing, the pilot realized that limited runway remained, so he landed to the left of the runway and the left wing impacted a perimeter fence.

Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA20LA038 for the full record.