Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain a proper glidepath which resulted in a collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while making an approach for landing he came in too low and collided with terrain. The forward fuselage and right wing were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR22LA097 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 9, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Paradise, California
- Nearest airport
- Paradise Skypark (CA92)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20J
- N-number
- N201VJ
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- 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.