Probable cause
The airplane’s encounter with a downdraft after takeoff, which resulted in a forced landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the airplane reported that, prior to takeoff, he observed adverse weather conditions that were approaching the airport from about 5 to 10 nautical miles away. During takeoff, when the airplane was about 50 feet above the ground, the airplane encountered a downdraft. The airplane’s left wing then dropped and the airplane entered a descent. The airplane impacted terrain and fences, which resulted in substantial damage to both wings.
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 WPR24LA264 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 2, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Carrizozo, New Mexico
- Nearest airport
- Carrizozo Muni (F37)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20F
- N-number
- N9954L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1967
- 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.