MOONEY M20E

Full Narrative

On August 9, 2026 at 802 eastern daylight time, a Mooney M20E, N9257V, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Conway, South Carolina. The pilot was uninjured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
The pilot reported he planned to conduct an instrument flight rules (IFR) cross-country flight from Conway-Horry County Airport (HYW), Conway, South Carolina, to Berkeley County Airport (MKS), Moncks Corner, South Carolina. The pilot stated that he performed an engine run-up, which included a check of the magnetos, propeller governor and auxiliary fuel pump. He then departed runway 22, announced his intention to depart the area on the common traffic advisory frequency and switched to the terminal radar approach control frequency to activate his IFR clearance. Shortly thereafter, he noticed “sluggish” performance and decided to switch fuel tanks, which did not resolve the condition. He soon felt a vibration and noticed the engine running rough, which he described as continuing to “pick up and then back off.” About 1,000 ft mean sea level, he turned back to HYW before the engine lost power completely. The pilot stated that he could not reach the airport and soon began striking trees. The airplane came to rest upright, in dense woods.
Post accident examination of the airplane by an FAA inspector revealed substantial damage to the empennage, fuselage, and both wings. The fuselage was crumpled and torn in multiple locations, and both the wings and tail sustained significant leading-edge damage. The engine case was not breached, and the engine oil dipstick was removed and showed about 8 quarts of oil.
The pilot stated that he refueled the airplane after his last flight in June 2026 to a total of 52 gallons. The most recent maintenance logbook entry noted the replacement of the engine starter in July 2026.
The wreckage was recovered and retained for further examination.