Probable cause
A loss of engine power for unknown reasons.
NTSB analysis
During climb out following a practice landing approach, the pilot heard a “mechanical noise” and the engine began to intermittently cut out, then stopped producing power entirely. The pilot was unable to return to the runway and made a forced landing to a soybean field, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Data downloaded from the onboard engine data monitor indicated a brief increase in manifold and fuel pressure before the loss of engine power. A postaccident examination of the fuel system, fuel-injected engine, and ignition system revealed no evidence of any mechanical issues or deficiencies that would have precluded normal operation of the engine at the time of the accident. As such, the investigation was not able to determine why the engine lost power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA344 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 20, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fostoria, Ohio
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20K
- N-number
- N1152K
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- 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.