View source for Mooney M20

The '''Mooney M20''' is a family of [[Reciprocating engine|piston-powered]], four-seat, propeller-driven, [[general aviation]] [[aircraft]], all featuring low wings and [[tricycle gear]], manufactured by the [[Mooney International Corporation]].<ref name="Janes">Munson, Kenneth & Michael Taylor: ''Jane's Pocket Book of light Aircraft'', page 143. Janes Publishing, 1982. {{ISBN|0710601956}}</ref><ref name="Montgomery">Montgomery, M.R & Gerald Foster: ''A Field Guide to Airplanes, Second Edition'', page 38-39. Houghton Mifflin Company, 1992. {{ISBN|0-395-62888-1}}</ref><ref name="Plane and Pilot">Plane and Pilot: ''1978 Aircraft Directory'', pages 54–55. Werner & Werner Corp, Santa Monica CA, 1977. {{ISBN|0-918312-00-0}}</ref>

The M20 was the 20th design from [[Albert Mooney|Al Mooney]], and his most successful. The series has been produced in many variations over the last 60 years, from the wooden-wing M20 and M20A models of 1955,<ref name="Plane and Pilot"/> to the M20V Acclaim Ultra that debuted in 2016. More than 11,000 aircraft in total have been produced across three production runs, with the most recent concluding in 2019.

In November 2008, the company announced that it was halting all production as a result of the [[late-2000s recession]], but would still provide parts and support for the existing fleet.<ref name="Avweb05Nov08">{{cite web|url = http://www.avweb.com/news/aopa/AOPAExpo2008_MooneyTemporarilyHaltsProduction_199134-1.html|title = Mooney Temporarily Halts Production|access-date = 6 November 2008|last = Niles|first = Russ|date = November 2008|archive-date = June 12, 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110612014031/http://www.avweb.com/news/aopa/AOPAExpo2008_MooneyTemporarilyHaltsProduction_199134-1.html|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="AvWeb19Nov10">Left blank intentionally</ref><ref name="Mooney18Nov10">{{cite web|url = https://aerospaceblog.wordpress.com/2010/11/20/mooney-aviation-company-announcement/|title = Mooney Aviation Company Announcement|access-date = 14 October 2017|publisher = Aerospace Blog|date = 20 November 2010|archive-date = October 14, 2017|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171014234648/https://aerospaceblog.wordpress.com/2010/11/20/mooney-aviation-company-announcement/|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="MooneySNF2011">{{cite web|url = http://www.mooney.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=577&Itemid=54|title = Sun 'n Fun 2011|access-date = 12 April 2011|last = Mooney Airplane Company|author-link = Mooney Airplane Company|date = April 2011|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110928054542/http://www.mooney.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=577&Itemid=54|archive-date = September 28, 2011|df = mdy-all}}</ref> With the injection of Chinese capital after the company's purchase, production of the M20 resumed in February 2014. Since then, the company has released two more M20 models.<ref name="Niles08Feb14">Left blank intentionally</ref>

==Development==
Al Mooney had been developing preliminary designs for the four-seater M20 for some time, while the single-seat [[Mooney M-18 Mite|M-18 Mite]] was in production in the late 1940s and early 1950s. When in early 1953 the company moved from [[Wichita, Kansas]], to [[Kerrville, Texas]], and when it became clear that the Mite was nearing the end of its production, development of the M20 accelerated. The first M20 flight took place on September 3, 1953, and it was certified on August 24, 1955.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 52–53.</ref>

During 1955, the company sold 10 of the M20 airplanes. Due to start-up costs, they lost about $3000 on each airplane. In 1956, they delivered 51 airplanes, and in 1957 the total was 105. The airplane gained attention because it was able to achieve speeds up to {{convert|170|mph}} with a {{convert|150|hp|abbr=on}} [[Lycoming Engines|Lycoming]] O-320 engine. The combination of speed and efficiency was noteworthy.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 57–58.</ref> In 1958 the M20A joined the lineup with a larger {{convert|180|hp|abbr=on}} Lycoming O-360-A1A engine, and by 1959, this was the only model offered, with a total sales that year of 231 units. This was the first year the company made a profit. The M20A continued production into 1960, when 166 were delivered. These were the last of the Mooneys to have wooden structures in the wings and tail.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 58–59.</ref> Early in the model's history, several incidents of wooden tails breaking up in flight occurred due to water damage and the resulting rot. Consequently, most tails have now been replaced with all-metal copies, as required by Mooney Service Bulletin M20-170A and the FAA [[Airworthiness Directive]] 86-19-10. Without the possibility of metal fatigue, the wooden wing has an indefinite life expectancy and is considered by some pilots to provide a smoother ride in turbulence.<ref name="Wheat">{{cite web|url = http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/woodwing.html|title = Wood Wing Mooneys – Are They Safe?|access-date = 6 August 2008|last = Kromer|first = Bob|year = n.d.|archive-date = October 8, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081008033601/http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/woodwing.html|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="AD86-19-10">{{cite web|url = http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library%5CrgAD.nsf/0/33BA96B4A3AD098A86256A57006692E3?OpenDocument|title = Airworthiness Directive 86-19-10|access-date = 6 August 2008|last = Federal Aviation Administration|author-link = Federal Aviation Administration|date = October 1986|archive-date = June 8, 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110608082752/http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library%5CrgAD.nsf/0/33BA96B4A3AD098A86256A57006692E3?OpenDocument|url-status = dead}}</ref>

===1960s===

In January 1960, the Mooney company convinced Ralph Harmon to leave [[McDonnell Aircraft]] in [[St. Louis, Missouri]], and take over management of the engineering efforts. He insisted on replacing the wood in the M20 with aluminum, and the all-metal M20B was completed by the end of 1960, less than a year after his arrival. In 1961, the company sold 222 M20B airplanes. The following year, the M20C was introduced and 336 were sold that year.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 60–63.</ref> Also known as the Mark 21 and later the Ranger,<ref>Garrison 1980, p. 17.</ref> the M20C had several improvements over the M20B, including greater deflection on control surfaces, reduced cowl flap openings for better engine cooling, improved exhaust scavenging with a Hanlon and Wilson exhaust system, new battery access door, more powerful landing light, lightweight floor, an increased gross weight of {{convert|2575|lbs}}, lighter empty weight, new instrument panel layout, and a higher maximum flap angle of 33 degrees.<ref name="Janes"/><ref name="Chronology"/>

[[File:Mooney 1967C Model 2.jpg|thumb|1967 Mooney M20C]]
In 1963, the M20D was introduced, essentially an M20C with fixed landing gear and a fixed-pitch propeller. This had a slightly lower price than the M20C and was intended as a basic or trainer model which would have lower insurance costs and which would compete with the Piper Cherokee 180.<ref name="Janes"/><ref name="Plane and Pilot"/> It could be upgraded with retractable landing gear, and in fact, most of them were upgraded over the years. The M20D was produced from 1963 to 1966 with a total production of 161 units.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 65–66.</ref> In 1964 the M20E Super 21 was introduced. It was also based on the M20C but with a more powerful {{convert|200|hp|abbr=on}} Lycoming fuel-injected engine. The company sold 366 M20E units that year.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 66.</ref>

In 1965, a new feature was introduced to the M20. It was called "positive control" and was a single-axis autopilot produced by Brittain Industries. It maintained the wings of the airplane in a level position unless a button on the control wheel was depressed for turns and banks. It was a controversial feature, liked by some pilots and disliked by others.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 67–73.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.brittainautopilots.com/mooney-pc-systems.html|title=Mooney "PC" Positive Control System|publisher=Brittain Industries, Inc.|access-date=9 August 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810090600/http://www.brittainautopilots.com/mooney-pc-systems.html|archive-date=August 10, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Production and sales of the M20 continued to increase. In 1966, a total of 760 units were delivered, including 280 of the M20C Mark 21 planes and 473 of the M20E Super 21s. A new model, the M20F Executive 21, offered more legroom due to a {{convert|10|inch|cm|adj=on}} increase in cabin length which also allowed for a third fuselage side window.<ref name="Janes"/><ref name="Plane and Pilot"/><ref name="Chronology"/> It had {{convert|64|gal|L}} of fuel capacity compared to {{convert|52|gal|L}} in earlier models, and grossed an additional {{convert|165|lbs}}. This year, the company exceeded $1,000,000 in profits.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 86–87.</ref>

The M20G Statesman, a version of the M20F with less-powerful {{convert|180|hp}} engine, was released in 1968. It had a larger airframe than the M20C, but the same engine, and as a result was slower. It was not as successful as the M20F and was produced for only three years, from 1968 to 1970, with a total production run of 189 units.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 224–226.</ref><ref>Garrison 1980, pp. 28–29.</ref>

Despite strong sales, Mooney was short of cash. The company went into [[Chapter 7, Title 11, United States Code|chapter 7 bankruptcy]] in early 1969, and was acquired by [[American Electronics Laboratories]] and then Butler Aviation International. Sales that year were less than half of the previous year's figures, although a new version of the M20E Chaparral was released with electrically operated flaps and landing gear. Butler Aviation also acquired the troubled [[Aerostar Aircraft Corporation|Aerostar]] company and combined it with Mooney in an attempt to save both. The Mooney name was dropped in 1970, as was the M20 designation; the planes were called Aerostars.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 103–112.</ref>

===1970s===

Butler Aviation closed the Mooney plant in early 1971, and it remained closed for more than two years. In October 1973, Mooney was purchased by [[Republic Steel]]. Robert Cumming, a general manager at Republic Steel, had owned a Mooney M20F Executive for years and flew it frequently, and wished to put the Mooney M20 back into production. This began in January 1974 with the reintroduction of the M20F Executive. [[Roy LoPresti]], formerly of [[Grumman American]], had been hired as the vice president of engineering. Through the efforts of his engineering group, various improvements were made to the M20 with the goal of increasing its speed, and the M20J was introduced in July 1976. It was also known as the Mooney 201 because it was capable of {{convert|201|mph}} with its {{convert|200|hp}} engine. The 201 was a big seller, and a turbocharged version was developed later that year. The next year, 1977, three models were offered: the M20C Ranger, the M20F Executive, and the M20J 201. By 1979, the M20C had been dropped, ending production of the short-body M20.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 127–134.</ref>

The same year, 1979, the company's first turbocharged M20 was released: the M20K 231, so designated because its top speed was {{convert|231|mph}}. It was based on the earlier 201 with further improvements. It had a wider wingspan and a six-cylinder [[Continental Aerospace Technologies|Continental]] engine, and the fuel capacity was increased to {{convert|80|gal}}. This year, a total of 439 airplanes were delivered—fewer than the top years of the 1960s, but these deliveries resulted in healthy profits. From this point through 1986, the M20J and the turbocharged M20K were the only two models offered.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 141–144.</ref>

===1980s===

General aviation manufacturing experienced a [[General Aviation Revitalization Act#History|significant downturn]] starting in 1982. Mooney was affected along with other manufacturers and was forced to downsize through temporary layoffs. Despite the recession, development work continued. The 201 and 231 received more improvements, including significant reductions in cabin noise levels. In 1982, deliveries fell to 218 units, and in 1983 only 154 aircraft were produced. The [[United States Air Force]] announced a competition to develop a replacement for the [[Cessna T-41 Mescalero|Cessna T-41]] trainer, and Mooney immediately began to develop a military trainer based on the 231.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 145–153.</ref>

While the company was dealing with the recession, Republic Steel was acquired by the [[Ling-Temco-Vought]] corporation and dropped Mooney. The company ended up in the hands of Armand Rivard of [[Lake Aircraft]] and Alexandre Couvelair, a Mooney dealer from [[Paris]]. Sales continued to fall, totaling 143 in 1984 and 99 in 1985.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 154–160.</ref>

The next new model, the M20K 252, appeared in early 1986 with a top speed of {{convert|252|mph}}. It replaced the 231 and achieved its higher speed with the same {{convert|210|hp}} engine. It featured a new 28-volt electrical system to power additional equipment and to improve cold-weather starting. The Continental TSIO-360-GB engine in the 231 had required specific pilot training and modified takeoff and climb procedures to operate at acceptable engine temperatures in hot weather. Because of this, the 252 received an intercooled TSIO-360-MB engine. The various improvements were copied to the 201 airframe, and the new 205 model was released in 1987.<ref name="Janes"/><ref name="Chronology"/>

[[File:M20L D-EEFX.JPG|thumb|Mooney M20L with the Porsche PFM 3200 N03 engine derived from an automotive engine design]]

This was followed in 1988 by the M20L PFM, powered by a [[Porsche PFM 3200]] engine which had been developed from the 911 Carrera engine. The maximum speed with this configuration was {{convert|161|kn|km/h|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>Left blank intentionally</ref> The fuselage was stretched to form the first long-body M20. One new feature on this airplane was the replacement of the throttle, mixture and propeller controls with a single power control; mixture and propeller rotation speed were automatically adjusted based on the setting of this single control. The Mooney PFM did not last, with a total of 41 units having been manufactured in 1988 and 1989.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 160–170.</ref> Most M20Ls no longer use this unique engine, as factory support ceased in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://porscheaviation.com/|title=Porsche Aircraft Engines|publisher=Porsche Aviation|access-date=24 July 2017|archive-date=July 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170725024538/http://porscheaviation.com/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Mooney_M20M_Bravo.jpg|thumb|Mooney M20M with the Lycoming turbocharged engine]]

In February 1989, the next M20 model was released: the M20M TLS (Turbocharged Lycoming Sabre). It was powered, as the name hinted, by a turbocharged Lycoming six-cylinder engine that produced {{convert|270|hp}} at 2,575 rpm, and it had a three-bladed propeller. It was capable of cruising at {{convert|230|mph}} and had a range of {{convert|1060|mi}} and a maximum climb rate of {{convert|2380|ft}} per minute. The first year, the TLS accounted for 30 of the 143 aircraft delivered, and in 1990, this increased to 61 units.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 175–182.</ref> Also in 1989, Mooney released a trainer model based on the M20J. Beech, Cessna, and Piper had all stopped production of trainers throughout the 1980s, and the 201AT was designed to fill this gap. From 1989 to 1992, 20 units were delivered.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 182–185.</ref>

===1990s===

The next Mooney M20 model was the M20J 201, also designated the MSE, released in 1990 (although few were actually delivered prior to 1991). This was a {{convert|200|hp}} non-turbocharged model that incorporated many features from the TLS. In early 1991, Mooney decided to offer its Enhanced Flight Screener Trainer model to the general public, given that the Air Force was slow to make a decision on its trainer. It was to have a {{convert|260|hp}} [[Lycoming O-540]] engine and would be rated for aerobatics. However, it generated little public interest. The TLS continued production through 1995, and the MSE continued, too, until it was replaced by the M20R Ovation in 1994. Once again, Mooney was offering two models: one offering high speed (the TLS) and the other offering high efficiency.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 185–189.</ref>

[[File:MooneyM20TPredatorN20XT.jpg|thumb|Mooney M20T Predator prototype, N20XT, on display at [[Sun 'n Fun]] 2006]]

The M20T Predator, a canopy-equipped version of the basic M20 design powered by a [[Lycoming O-540|Lycoming AEIO-540]] engine, was Mooney's entrant in the [[USAF]] Enhanced Flight Screener competition. The prototype, built in 1991, displayed in a tiger-stripe paint scheme. The sole prototype, registered N20XT, was flown in the [[Experimental aircraft|Experimental – Market Survey]] category and was still owned by Mooney Aircraft in 2013, although its registration had expired November 30, 2013.<ref name="AviationConsumer">{{cite web|url = http://www.aviationconsumer.com/issues/28_2/aircraftreview/4864-1.html|title = Mooney Predator|access-date = 4 July 2008|last = Belvoir Media Group|date = February 1998|archive-date = July 7, 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110707194102/http://www.aviationconsumer.com/issues/28_2/aircraftreview/4864-1.html|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="FAA">{{cite web|url = http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/NNum_Results.aspx?NNumbertxt=N20XT|title = FAA Registry N-Number Inquiry Results|access-date = 26 December 2013|last = Federal Aviation Administration|author-link = Federal Aviation Administration|date = December 26, 2013|archive-date = September 16, 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110916214604/http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/NNum_Results.aspx?NNumbertxt=N20XT|url-status = live}}</ref> The competition for the Enhanced Flight Screener program was finally held in 1992, and the [[Slingsby T67 Firefly]] was chosen instead of the Mooney EFS. Sales continued to drop, only reaching 64 units in 1993. The San Antonio location was sold and all operations returned to Kerrville. Development of the M20 continued, however, and the M20R Ovation was released in 1994. It was designed to fill a gap between the normally aspirated MSE and the turbocharged TLS, and it was powered by a {{convert|280|hp}} [[Continental IO-550]] engine. Of the 91 Mooney aircraft manufactured in 1995, 54 were Ovations.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 190–199.</ref> This model was named ''[[Flying (magazine)|''Flying's'']]'' single-engine plane of the year in 1994.<ref name="Chronology"/>

The following year, an upgraded model of the TLS with a more powerful [[Lycoming O-540|Lycoming TIO-540-AF1B]] engine, was designated the M20M, but also was referred to as the "Bravo" due to the new B engine. This upgrade was offered to owners of earlier TLS models that had the TIO-540-AF1A engine. Soon after the release of the Bravo, the [[Ice protection system#TKS Ice Protection|TKS ice protection system]] was offered for the Bravo and Ovation models. The M20K Encore was released in 1997, an M20K with more horsepower and a higher gross weight, giving it performance similar to the original M20K. It also had an improved interior and reduced cabin noise levels.<ref>Ball 1998, pp. 202–205.</ref>

The M20S Eagle, released in 1999, was powered by a {{convert|244|hp|abbr=on}} Continental IO-550-G. It was followed in 2001 by the Eagle 2. This model included refinements such as a  standard leather interior. The Eagle 2 also used the same 3 blade propeller as the original versions of the M20R and was produced from 1994 to 1999.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/2005_M20R/2005_M20R.htm | title=Pilot Report M20R Ovation | access-date=September 19, 2018 | archive-date=September 8, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180908104655/http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/2005_M20R/2005_M20R.htm | url-status=live }}</ref>

===2000s===

The M20TN Acclaim was released in 2006, powered by a turbonormalized Continental TSIO-550-G powerplant with twin turbochargers and dual intercoolers. The Acclaim replaced the Mooney M20M Bravo in the company product line.<ref name="2A3"/><ref name="MooneyX1">{{cite web |url = http://www.mooney.com/ |title = Mooney Website |date = October 4, 2007 |author = Mooney Aircraft |access-date = 6 October 2007 |archive-date = December 31, 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071231192954/http://www.mooney.com/ |url-status = live }}</ref>

Mooney laid off 60 employees in June 2008 and cut production, citing a weak economy and sales inhibited by high fuel prices.<ref name="Avweb19Jun08">{{cite web|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/LayoffsAndProductionSlowdownAtMooney_198126-1.html|title = Layoffs And Production Slowdown At Mooney|access-date = 19 June 2008|last = Grady|first = Mary|date = June 2008|archive-date = March 3, 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303222346/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/LayoffsAndProductionSlowdownAtMooney_198126-1.html|url-status = live}}</ref> Later that year, in November, all production was halted.<ref name="Avweb05Nov08"/>

In July 2008, Mooney signed a memorandum of understanding with [[Rolls-Royce plc|Rolls-Royce]] to develop a version of the M20 that was to have been powered by the [[Rolls-Royce RR500]] TP [[turboprop]] powerplant. The project was announced as being a joint "marketing investigation" and "exploration project", but does not appear to have come to fruition.<ref name="AvWeb01Aug08">Left blank intentionally</ref>

===2010s===
[[File:Mooney Acclaim Ultra.jpg|thumb|Mooney Acclaim Ultra]]

More employees were laid off in late 2010. The stated goal was to have fewer than 10 employees at the start of 2011, with these employees providing parts and support to existing aircraft owners while the company searched for new investment.<ref name="AvWeb19Nov10"/> This search ended in late 2013; Chinese investment enabled the company to resume production in early 2014.<ref>{{cite web |last=Niles |first=Russ |url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooney-Sold-To-Chinese-Company-Report220708-1.html |title=Mooney Sold To Chinese Company: Report – AVweb flash Article |publisher=Avweb |date=8 October 2013 |access-date=9 October 2013 |archive-date=November 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108161704/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooney-Sold-To-Chinese-Company-Report220708-1.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Niles |first=Russ |url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooney-Confirms-Funding-To-Resume-Production220773-1.html |title=Mooney Confirms Funding To Resume Production |publisher=Avweb |date=12 October 2013 |access-date=14 October 2013 |archive-date=November 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108161630/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooney-Confirms-Funding-To-Resume-Production220773-1.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Later that year, the M10T and the M10J were announced, both to be powered by Continental diesel engines.<ref>{{cite web|last=Trimble|first=Stephen|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/mooney-adds-composite-diesel-powered-aircraft-to-portfolio-406010/|title=Mooney adds composite, diesel-powered aircraft to portfolio|work=[[Flightglobal]]|publisher=Reed Business Information|date=13 November 2014|access-date=13 November 2014|archive-date=September 12, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912101840/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/mooney-adds-composite-diesel-powered-aircraft-to-portfolio-406010/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url  = http://www.planeandpilotmag.com/article/mooney-international-introduces-first-new-mooney-models/#.WeI86FtSxhE |title  = Mooney International Introduces First New Mooney Models |date = February 6, 2016 |access-date  = 14 October 2017 |archive-date  = August 20, 2020 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20200820064901/https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/article/mooney-international-introduces-first-new-mooney-models/#.WeI86FtSxhE |url-status  = live }}</ref>

Two new models were released in 2016: the M20U Ovation Ultra and the M20V Acclaim Ultra. The M20U was based on the M20R, and its first flight was on June 4, 2016. It was the first M20 to have a pilot-side door. It also featured a composite shell forward fuselage which replaced the traditional aluminum skin. The M20V, which was developed from the M20TN Acclaim, had those features, as well.<ref name="avweb.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooney-Unveils-Something-New-A-Two-Door-Acclaim-225676-1.html|title=Mooney Unveils Something New: A Two-Door Acclaim|work=AVweb|access-date=February 12, 2016|date=February 10, 2016|archive-date=February 12, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160212082408/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooney-Unveils-Something-New-A-Two-Door-Acclaim-225676-1.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Grady29Mar17">{{cite web|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooneys-New-Models-Now-Certified-228721-1.html|title = Mooney's New Models Now Certified|access-date = March 29, 2017|last = Grady|first = Mary|work = AVweb|date = March 29, 2017|archive-date = March 29, 2017|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170329212211/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Mooneys-New-Models-Now-Certified-228721-1.html|url-status = live}}</ref>

The company closed its doors and laid off all staff on November 12, 2019.<ref name="Cook12Nov19">{{cite web|url = https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/mooney-shut-down-employees-furloughed/|title = Mooney Shuts Down, Employees Furloughed|access-date = 12 November 2019|last = Cook|first =Marc |work = AVweb|date = 12 November 2019|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191113003245/https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/mooney-shut-down-employees-furloughed/|archive-date = November 13, 2019 }}</ref> The company reopened and staff returned to work on December 2, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Diamond|first=Randy|date=2019-12-02|title=Aircraft maker Mooney is back in business in Kerrville|url=https://www.expressnews.com/business/article/Aircraft-maker-Mooney-is-back-in-business-in-14875757.php|access-date=2021-04-10|website=San Antonio Express-News|language=en-US}}</ref>

==Design==
With the exception of the earliest models which had wings and tails with wooden frames, M20s are constructed entirely of metal. All are low-wing aircraft, and the wing skin is [[aluminum]]. Slotted flaps cover 70% of the trailing edge. Earlier models use a hydraulic hand pump to extend the flaps, while later models have electrically operated flaps. The forward fuselage has a steel-tube cabin structure covered in aluminum skin; the aft portion of the fuselage is of semi-monocoque design. In many places on the skin of the airplane, flush-mounted rivets are used to reduce drag.<ref name="Mooney M20">{{cite web|url=http://stickandthrottle.com/Mooney-M20|title=Mooney M20|publisher=How It Flies|access-date=24 July 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822014307/http://stickandthrottle.com/Mooney-M20|archive-date=August 22, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

The landing gear on the Mooney M20 are made of heat-treated chrome-molybdenum steel. The main landing gear is attached to the main wing spar, while the nose gear is mounted to the tubular steel frame. Stacks of rubber shock discs act as shock absorbers. All models, with the exception of the M20D Master, came with retractable landing gear; on these models, the nose wheel retracts rearwards and the main wheels retract inwards. Early models use a hand-operated lever system to raise and lower the gear. The manually actuated landing gear are raised by unlocking the lever, which is called a "Johnson Bar" (named after the [[Johnson Bar (locomotive)]]), from just below the throttle, rotating it to the floor, and locking it into a fixture on the floor. Lowering the landing gear require the same operations in opposite order. Al Mooney got his start working as young man for the railroad industry, hence the borrowing of a steam locomotive term for use in describing part of an aircraft.<ref name="Al Mooney Story">Left blank intentionally</ref><ref name="Mooney M20"/> Starting in 1969, electrically operated landing gear became standard.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 225.</ref>

The Mooney M20 has medium [[Aspect ratio (wing)|aspect-ratio]] tapered wings with 1.5 degrees of [[Washout (aviation)|washout]] and 5.5 degrees of [[Dihedral (aircraft)|dihedral]]. Later models were equipped with [[stall strips]] to improve the [[Stall (flight)|stall]] characteristics.<ref name="Mooney M20"/>

{{anchor|Mooney rudder}}The [[empennage]] of the Mooney M20 is easily recognizable by its unique tail fin with a vertical leading edge. (The tail fin looks as though it is "leaning forward", but it is approximately vertical in level flight, depending on trim setting.) The horizontal tailplane, which consists of fixed stabilizers and trailing elevators, has no trim tabs. The entire tail assembly pivots at the rear of the fuselage to provide pitch trim.<ref name="Executive 21 POH">Left blank intentionally</ref>

All M20s store fuel in two separate "wet wing" tanks, which are located in the inboard sections of each wing. Fuel is driven from the tank to the injectors or carburetor by an engine-driven pump, backed up with an electric boost pump.<ref name="Executive 21 POH" />

For increased power, many M20s also have a ram-air induction system, called the Mooney "Power Boost". For normal operations, the intake air is filtered before it enters the induction system. When ram air is selected, partially unfiltered air enters the induction system with a higher pressure and consequently the manifold pressure increases about a full inch of mercury flying at 7500 feet above mean sea level, giving a greater power output.<ref name="Executive 21 POH" /> The turbocharged variants omit this feature, as the turbocharger provides a far greater increase in manifold pressure.

The Mooney M20 series has been produced in three fuselage lengths: the "short-body" (M20 through M20E), "medium-body" (M20F through M20K), and "long-body" (M20L through M20V). Although all M20s have four seats, the fuselage length increase provided more rear passenger legroom, but with a slight performance decrease: for a similar engine and vintage, a long-body plane is 4 to 6 knots slower than the short-body plane.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.aopa.org/go-fly/aircraft-and-ownership/aircraft-fact-sheets/mooney-m20|title=Mooney M20|publisher=AOPA|access-date=24 July 2017|date=September 26, 2013|archive-date=August 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811060628/https://www.aopa.org/go-fly/aircraft-and-ownership/aircraft-fact-sheets/mooney-m20|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Operational history==
In August 2017, 6,748 Mooney M20 aircraft were registered with US [[Federal Aviation Administration]], 342 with [[Transport Canada]], and 33 in the [[United Kingdom]] with the [[Civil Aviation Authority (United Kingdom)|Civil Aviation Authority]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/AcftRef_Results.aspx?Mfrtxt=MOONEY&Modeltxt=M20&PageNo=1|title=FAA Registry, Make / Model Inquiry Results|publisher=Federal Aviation Administration|access-date=10 August 2017}}{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref name="TCCAR">{{cite web|url = http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/2/CCARCS-RIACC/RchSimpRes.aspx?cn=%7c%7c&mn=%7cM20%7c&sn=%7c%7c&on=%7c%7c&m=%7c%7c|title = Canadian Civil Aircraft Register|access-date = 10 August 2017|author = Transport Canada|date = 10 August 2017|author-link = Transport Canada|archive-date = August 20, 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200820064910/https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/2/CCARCS-RIACC/RchSimpRes.aspx?cn=%7C%7C&mn=%7CM20%7C&sn=%7C%7C&on=%7C%7C&m=%7C%7C&cn=%7C%7C&mn=%7CM20%7C&sn=%7C%7C&on=%7C%7C&m=%7C%7C|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="GINFO">{{cite web|url = http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/modalapplication.aspx?catid=1&pagetype=65&appid=1&mode=summary&aircrafttype=MOONEY%20M20|title = GINFO Search Results Summary|access-date = 10 August 2017|author = Civil Aviation Authority (United Kingdom)|date = 10 August 2017|author-link = Civil Aviation Authority (United Kingdom)|archive-date = August 10, 2017|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170810172710/http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/modalapplication.aspx?catid=1&pagetype=65&appid=1&mode=summary&aircrafttype=MOONEY%20M20|url-status = live}}</ref> As of July 2018, 154 M20 aircraft were registered with Australia's CASA.

In June and July, 2017, pilot Brian Lloyd flew his Mooney M20K 231 around the world, commemorating [[Amelia Earhart]]'s attempted circumnavigation which took place 80 years earlier in 1937. Lloyd followed a route similar to the one taken by Earhart.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://projectameliaearhart.org/|title=Project Amelia Earhart|access-date=9 September 2017|archive-date=September 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918154212/http://projectameliaearhart.org/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Variants==
;M20 Mark 20
:Initial variant with mostly wooden construction and manually retracting landing gear.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 50.</ref>  The 1953 prototype, registered N4199, was originally powered by a {{Convert|145|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Continental O-300|Continental C-145-2H]] engine.  The prototype was later re-engined with a {{Convert|150|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Lycoming O-320]] engine driving a two-bladed [[Hartzell Propeller|Hartzell]] [[constant-speed propeller]], which became standard on production aircraft.<ref name=":1">Ball 1998, p. 54–55.</ref><ref name="2A3">{{cite web |last= |author-link= |date=August 20, 2018 |title=Type Certificate Data Sheet No. 2A3 Rev. 58 |url=https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/6EA0F05ECCA8304486258305006833CF.0001 |url-status=live |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=August 21, 2024 |website=[[Federal Aviation Administration]]}}</ref>  Despite the engine change, the cowling was not redesigned, leading to sub-optimal intake air pressure; a problem that would not be fixed for many years.<ref name=":1" /><ref name="2A3" />  The gross weight was also increased from {{Convert|2200|lb|kg|abbr=on}} for the prototype to {{Convert|2450|lb|kg|abbr=on}} for production aircraft.<ref name=":0">Garrison 1980, p. 15.</ref>  During its four-year production run, the M20 received numerous improvements.<ref name=":2" />  Although all M20s were built with wooden tails, the FAA issued [[Airworthiness directive|Airworthiness Directive]] 68-25-6 in 1968 requiring all aircraft be fitted with a metal tail.<ref name="Wheat2">{{cite web |last=Kromer |first=Bob |year=n.d. |title=Wood Wing Mooneys – Are They Safe? |url=http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/woodwing.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081008033601/http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/woodwing.html |archive-date=October 8, 2008 |access-date=6 August 2008}}</ref>  Certified August 24, 1955.<ref name="2A3" />  200 total built; 10 (1955, including 1953 prototype), 51 (1956), 105 (1957), and 34 (1958).<ref name=":3">Ball 1998, p. 222.</ref>
[[File:Mooney M20A Private, GRQ Groningen (Eelde), Netherlands PP1169462555.jpg|thumb|M20A Mark 20A]]
;M20A Mark 20A
:Introduced in 1958 with a {{Convert|180|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Lycoming O-360|Lycoming O-360-A1A]] engine, though also certified for the O-360-A1D.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2">Ball 1998, p. 58.</ref>  As with the M20, Airworthiness Directive 68-25-6 required that all M20As be fitted with a metal tail.<ref name="Wheat2" />  Certified February 13, 1958.<ref name="2A3" />  500 total built; 103 (1958), 231 (1959), and 166 (1960).<ref name=":3" />
;M20B Mark 21
:Introduced in 1961 as the first M20 with all-metal construction.<ref name=":4" />  The M20B's empty weight was increased by {{Convert|110|lb|kg|abbr=on}} over that of the M20A, though the gross weight remained at {{Convert|2450|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="2A3" /><ref name=":0" />  Certified December 14, 1960.<ref name="2A3" />  222 built, all in 1961.<ref name=":3" />
;M20C
:* '''M20C Mark 21''', introduced in 1962 with a {{Convert|180|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming O-360-A1D engine and gross weight increased to {{Convert|2575|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref>Garrison 1980, p. 15, 17.</ref>  Electrically retracting landing gear was introduced as an option in 1965, while a single-axis [[Brittian Industries]] autopilot marketed as "positive control" or "PC" was added as standard equipment.<ref name=":5">Garrison 1980, p. 22.</ref><ref name=":6">Ball 1998, p. 67.</ref>  At some point during production, the rounded windows of the Mark 21 were redesigned to a more rectangular shape.<ref name=":5" />  Certified October 20, 1961.<ref name="2A3" />  1,653 total built; 336 (1962), 328 (1963), 183 (1964), 379 (1965), 280 (1966), and 147 (1967).<ref name=":7">Ball 1998, p. 222–223.</ref>
:* '''M20C Ranger''', replaced the Mark 21 in 1968 with a one-piece windshield, fixed cowl flaps and entrance step, and the dorsal fin removed.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 224.</ref>  In 1969, a new power quadrant was added, and the formerly optional electrical flaps and landing gear were made standard.<ref name=":8">Ball 1998, p. 225.</ref>  Mooney branding was dropped in 1971, and no Rangers were produced in 1972 and 1973.  When Ranger production restarted in 1974, it reverted to the Mooney branding.<ref name=":9">Ball 1998, p. 227.</ref>  530 total built; 196 (1968), 97 (1969), 88 (1970), 37 (1974), 39 (1975), 33 (1976), 25 (1977), and 15 (1978).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 224–229.</ref> 
:* '''Aerostar 200 Ranger''', rebranding of the M20C with an ornamental appendage on the tip of the vertical tail, a streamlined stinger tail cone, and an improved air distribution system.<ref name=":10">Ball 1998, p. 123, 226.</ref><ref>Garrison 1980, p. 23–24.</ref>  9 built, all in 1971.<ref name=":9" />
[[File:1963 Mooney M20D Master.jpg|thumb|M20D Master.  Although originally built with fixed landing gear, this aircraft was retrofitted with retractable gear similar to that found on other variants.]]
;M20D Master
:Simplified trainer variant introduced in 1963.  The Master is powered by a {{Convert|180|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming O-360-A1D engine driving a fixed-pitch Hartzell or [[McCauley Propeller Systems|McCauley]] propeller, though a constant-speed unit was offered as an option.  Unlike other M20 variants, the M20D was sold with fixed landing gear.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 62.</ref>  Mooney offered a factory conversion to replace the fixed gear with retractable units, which a majority of M20Ds underwent.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 66.</ref>  Unlike the M20C and M20E, the 1965 and 1966 M20D did not receive the  "positive control" autopilot.<ref name=":6" />  Gross weight was reduced to {{Convert|2500|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":0" />  Certified October 15, 1962.<ref name="2A3" />  161 total built; 100 (1963), 51 (1964), 9 (1965), and 1 (1966).<ref name=":7" />
;M20E
:* '''M20E Super 21''', introduced in 1964 as a higher-powered version of the Mark 21.  Powered by a [[Fuel injection|fuel injected]] {{Convert|200|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming IO-360-A1A engine, the M20E is otherwise largely identical to the M20C.<ref>Garrison 1980, p. 25.</ref><ref>Ball 1998, p. 63.</ref>  Like the M20C, the M20E received the "positive control" autopilot system in 1965.<ref name=":6" />  Other changes introduced in 1965 include a retractable entrance step, improved nose gear door closures, new bucket seats with recessed arm rests, improved cabin ventilation, a ram air power boost to improve high altitude performance, and optional electrically retracting landing gear.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 69.</ref>  Gross weight remained at {{Convert|2575|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.  Certified September 4, 1963.<ref name="2A3" />  1,264 total built; 366 (1964), 363 (1965), 473 (1966), and 62 (1967).<ref name=":7" />
:* '''M20E Chaparral''', replaced the Super 21 in 1969 with a one-piece windshield, a new power quadrant, and electrical flaps and landing gear as standard.<ref name=":8" />  Mooney branding was dropped in 1971, and no Chaparrals were produced in 1972 and 1973.  When Chaparral production restarted in 1974, it reverted to the Mooney branding.<ref name=":9" />  184 total built; 73 (1969), 54 (1970), 37 (1974), and 20 (1975).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 225–228.</ref>
:* '''Aerostar 201 Chaparral''', rebranding of the M20E with an ornamental appendage on the tip of the vertical tail, a streamlined stinger tail cone, and a more efficient engine cooling system.<ref name=":10" />  23 built, all in 1971.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 226.</ref>
[[File:N17AC (19366664720).jpg|thumb|M20F Executive 21 with an elongated rear window]]
;M20F
:* '''M20F Executive 21''', stretched M20E introduced in 1967.  Powered by the same {{Convert|200|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming IO-360-A1A engine as the Super 21, the M20F's fuselage was lengthened by {{Convert|1|ft|cm|abbr=on}}, the cabin was stretched by {{Convert|10|in|cm|abbr=on}}, and gross weight was increased to {{Convert|2740|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":11">Garrison 1980, p. 28–29.</ref><ref>Ball 1998, p. 87, 223.</ref>  The 1969 model introduced a one-piece windshield, a new power quadrant, and electrical flaps and landing gear as standard.<ref name=":8" />  Certified July 25, 1966.<ref name="2A3" />  904 total built; 3 (1966 prototypes), 536 (1967), 208 (1968), 89 (1969), and 68 (1970).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 223–226.</ref>
:* '''Aerostar 220 Executive''', rebranding of the M20F with an ornamental appendage on the tip of the vertical tail, a streamlined stinger tail cone, and a more efficient engine cooling system.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 123, 227.</ref>  12 built, all in 1971.  No Executives were built in 1972 and 1973.<ref name=":9" />
:* '''M20F Executive''', introduced in 1974 with reinstated Mooney branding.  327 total built; 66 (1974), 127 (1975), 127 (1976), and 7 (1977).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 227–228.</ref>
;M20G Statesman
:Stretched M20C introduced in 1968.<ref name=":12">Ball 1998, p. 92.</ref>  Powered by the same {{Convert|180|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming O-360-A1D engine as the Ranger, the M20G's fuselage was lengthened by {{Convert|1|ft|cm|abbr=on}}, the cabin was stretched by {{Convert|10|in|cm|abbr=on}} and a third side window was added, and gross weight was decreased to {{Convert|2525|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":11" /><ref name=":12" />  Certified November 13, 1967.<ref name="2A3" />  189 total built; 163 (1968), 20 (1969), and 6 (1970).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 224–226.</ref>
;M20H
:Engineering prototype<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-03-29 |title=Other preserved (non-flying) aircraft in Western Australia |url=https://www.aviationwa.org.au/aviation-lists-information/other-preserved-non-flying-aircraft-in-western-australia/ |access-date=2024-08-21 |website=AviationWA |language=en-AU}}</ref>
;M20J
:* '''M20J 201''', introduced in 1977 to replace the M20F.  Powered by a {{Convert|200|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming IO-360-A1B6D engine, the M20J introduced many changes to reduce drag.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 228.</ref>  These changes included a streamlined engine cooling system, landing gear doors that cover the wheel wells, flush airframe access panels, a new exhaust stack, flaps with faired-in hinges and gap seals, and a more efficient McCauley propeller.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 132–133.</ref>  In 1978, the engine was swapped for a similarly-powered Lycoming IO-360-A3B6D, and a power quadrant replaced the original push-pull engine controls.  The 1981 model introduced the redesigned wingtips of the M20K to the M20J, as well as improved soundproofing.  Soundproofing was further improved in 1982 with the addition of double-pane door windows as well as extra stiffeners and insulation in the cabin.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 229.</ref>  The 1984 model introduced improved instrument and circuit breaker panels and a streamlined composite belly panel.  Wing-mounted air brakes were made available as an option in 1985.<ref name=":13">Ball 1998, p. 230.</ref>  In 1989, the interior was redesigned to improve comfort, a 28V electrical system and electrically-operated cowl flaps were added, and the windows were revised with rounded corners.<ref name=":16">Ball 1998, p. 232.</ref>  Certified September 27, 1976.<ref name="2A3" />  A total of 1,723 were built from 1977 to 1987 and 1989 to 1990, including 201LM, 201SE, and MSE versions; 337 (1977), 380 (1978), 137 (1979), 137 (1980), 176 (1981), 113 (1982), 91 (1983), 82 (1984), 51 (1985), 37 (1986), 53 (1987), 65 (1989), and 64 (1990).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 228–233.</ref>
:* '''M20J 201LM''', "Lean Machine" version introduced in 1985.  As M20J 201 but with simplified equipment package.<ref name=":13" /><ref>Ball 1998, p. 160.</ref>  Production figures between 1985 and 1987 were grouped with the standard M20J 201, while 44 201LMs were built in 1988.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 230–231.</ref>
:* '''M20J 201SE''', "Special Edition" version introduced in 1985.  As M20J 201 but with a luxury interior.  Production figures were grouped with the standard M20J 201.<ref name=":13" />
:* '''M20J 201AT''', "Advanced Trainer" introduced in 1989 with a 14V electrical system, manually-operated cowl flaps, and a more durable interior.  22 total produced between 1989 and 1991; 1 (1989), 20 (1990), and 1 (1991 demonstrator).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 232–233.</ref>  In 1992, the aircraft was redesignated to '''M20J AT''' for its final year of production.  Production figures for the final year were grouped with the M20J MSE.<ref name=":14">Ball 1998, p. 233.</ref>
:* '''M20J 205''', introduced in 1987.  As M20J 201 but with airframe changes from the M20K 252 which increased its top speed by {{Convert|4|kn||abbr=on}}.  Other changes included a 28V electrical system and revised windows with rounded corners.  57 built.<ref name=":15">Ball 1998, p. 231.</ref>
:* '''M20J 205SE''', "Special Edition" version introduced in 1988.  As M20J 205 but with a luxury interior.  22 built.<ref name=":15" />
:* '''M20J MSE''', replaced the M20J 201 in May 1990 with numerous improvements taken from the higher-priced models.<ref name=":14" />  1990 production figures were grouped with he M20J 201.  205 total produced between 1991 and 1997, including the MSE Limited and M20J AT; 38 (1991), 41 (1992), 34 (1993), 34 (1994), 19 (1995), 19 (1996), and 20 (1997).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 233–235.</ref>
:* '''M20J MSE Limited''', introduced in 1991.  As M20J MSE but with packaged optional equipment.  Produced from 1991 to 1993, but production figures were grouped with the standard MSE.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 233–234.</ref>
:* '''M20J Allegro''', renamed MSE for final year of production in 1998.  19 built.<ref name="Chronology">{{cite web |last=Czernek |first=A. |date=September 2006 |title=Mooney Model Chronology (1948–2006) |url=http://www.mooneyevents.com/chrono.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051102034701/http://www.mooneyevents.com/chrono.htm |archive-date=November 2, 2005 |access-date=4 July 2008}}</ref>
[[File:N885DL (39364107562).jpg|thumb|M20K 231]]
;M20K
:* '''M20K 231''', introduced in 1979.  The first production M20 variant to feature a six-cylinder engine, the M20K 231 is powered by a {{Convert|210|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Continental IO-360|Continental TSIO-360-GB]] engine with a [[Rajay Turbo Products|Rajay]] turbocharger and push-pull power controls.  Fuel capacity was increased to {{Convert|75|gal|L|abbr=on}}, a dorsal fin air scoop was added to cool the cabin, and new curved wingtips were introduced.  The 1981 model featured improved soundproofing, which was further improved in 1982 along with the addition of a new exhaust resonator and pressurized magnetos.  In 1984, the engine was swapped for the {{Convert|210|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Continental TSIO-360-LB1B, and the improvements from that year's M20J were added as well.  The 1985 model also introduced the changes from its M20J counterpart.<ref name=":18" />  Certified November 16, 1978.<ref name="2A3" />  888 total built, including the 231SE; 246 (1979), 199 (1980), 166 (1981), 105 (1982), 63 (1983), 61 (1984), and 48 (1985).<ref name=":18">Ball 1998, p. 229–230.</ref>
:* '''M20K 231SE''', "Special Edition" version introduced in 1985.  As M20K 231 but with a luxury interior.  Production figures were grouped with the standard M20K 231.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 158–159.</ref>
:* '''M20K 252TSE''', replaced the 231 in 1986.  Powered by a {{Convert|210|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Continental TSIO-360-MB1 with a [[Garrett AiResearch|Garrett]] variable wastegate controller, the 252TSE also introduced curved side windows.<ref name=":15" />  There were no significant changes during the aircraft's five-year production run.  230 total built, 66 (1986), 89 (1987), 35 (1988), 22 (1989), 10 (1990), and 8 (1997).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 231–233.</ref>
:* '''M20K Encore''', introduced in 1997 with a {{Convert|220|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Continental TSIO-360-MB7B.  Gross weight was increased, and the landing gear from the M20M and M20R was installed to compensate.<ref name=":17">Ball 1998, p. 235.</ref><ref>Ball 1998, p. 205.</ref>  Gross weight was increased to {{Convert|3130|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="2A3" />  27 total built; 9 (1997) and 18 (1998).<ref name="Chronology" />
;M20L PFM
:Introduced in 1988 and produced for only two years.  Powered by a {{Convert|217|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Porsche PFM 3200|Porsche PFM 3200 N03]], the M20L's fuselage was lengthened by {{Convert|20|in|cm|abbr=on}} to maintain balance.  Likewise, the cabin was lengthened by {{Convert|12|in|cm|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":16" />  Gross weight was increased to {{Convert|2900|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.  Certified February 25, 1988.<ref name="2A3" />  41 total built; 40 (1988) and 1 (1989).<ref name=":16" />
;M20M
:* '''M20M TLS''', introduced in 1989.  Powered by a {{Convert|270|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Lycoming O-540|Lycoming TIO-540-AF1A]] engine, the M20M features the stretched fuselage of the M20L.  The rear seats were moved aft by {{Convert|4|in|cm|abbr=on}} to improve leg room.<ref name=":16" />  Gross weight was increased to {{Convert|3200|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="2A3" />  The 1996 model introduced an option for a [[TKS (company)|TKS]] [[ice protection system]], which could be retrofitted to older M20Ms.<ref name=":17" />  Certified June 28, 1989.<ref name="2A3" />  A total of 218 were built from 1989 to 1996, including the 1996 TLS Brao; 35 (1989), 45 (1990), 42 (1991), 22 (1992), 27 (1993), 20 (1994), 18 (1995), and 9 (1996).<ref>Ball 1998, p. 232–235.</ref>
:* '''M20M TLS Bravo''', replaced the TLS halfway through 1996.  As TLS but with a {{Convert|270|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming TIO-540-AF1B engine.<ref name=":17" />  The 2000 model introduced a dual [[Garmin 430]] panel, a KFC-225 autopilot, and a leather interior.  The dual Garmin 430 panel was replaced with a similar [[Garmin 530]]/430 panel in 2001.  1996 production figures were grouped with the TSE, while a total of 110 TSE Bravos were built between 1997 and 2004; 20 (1997), 17 (1998), 25 (1999), 26 (2000), 7 (2001), 7 (2003), and 8 (2004).<ref name="Chronology" />
:* '''M20M Bravo GX''', introduced in 2005.  As TLS Bravo but with a [[Garmin G1000|Garmin GX1000]] [[glass cockpit]] and a three-bladed McCauley propeller.  20 built in 2005.<ref name="Chronology" />
[[File:4X-CYG ErezS.jpg|thumb|M20R Ovation]]
;M20R
:* '''M20R Ovation''', introduced in 1994 with a {{Convert|280|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Continental IO-550|Continental IO-550-G]] engine.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 234.</ref>  The 1996 model introduced an option for a TKS ice protection system, which could be retrofitted to older M20Rs.<ref name=":17" />  Certified June 30, 1994.<ref name="2A3" />  199 total built; 21 (1994), 54 (1995), 20 (1996), 36 (1997), 41 (1998), and 27 (1999).<ref name="Chronology" /><ref>Ball 1998, p. 234–235.</ref>
:* '''M20R Ovation 2''', introduced in 2000.  As Ovation but with a dual Garmin 430 panel, a KFC-225 autopilot, a leather interior, and a two-bladed McCauley propeller.  The dual Garmin 430 panel was replaced with a similar Garmin 530/430 panel in 2001.<ref name="Chronology" />  A limited '''Platinum Edition''' was offered with advanced avionics and airframe and cabin upgrades.<ref>Left blank intentionally</ref>  131 total built; 55 (2000), 12 (2001), 8 (2002), 28 (2003), and 28 (2004).<ref name="Chronology" />
:* '''M20R Ovation 2 DX''', introduced in 2005 alongside the Ovation 2 GX.  One built in 2005.<ref name="Chronology" />
:* '''M20R Ovation 2 GX''', introduced in 2005 alongside the Ovation 2 DX.  As Ovation 2 but with a Garmin GX1000 glass cockpit and a three-bladed Hartzell propeller.  64 built in 2005.  The 11,000th Mooney delivered from the factory was a 2006 Ovation 2 GX.<ref name="Chronology" />
:* '''M20R Ovation 3''', introduced in June 2006.  As Ovation 2 GX but powered by a {{Convert|310|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Continental IO-550-G/AP engine.  At least 6 built.<ref name=":19" />
;M20S
:* '''M20S Eagle''', introduced in 1999.  Powered by a {{Convert|244|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Continental IO-550-G engine, the Eagle also features Moritz gauges, a two-axis [[S-TEC Corporation|S-TEC]] autopilot, and {{Convert|75|gal|L|abbr=on}} fuel tanks.<ref name="Chronology" />  Certified March 7, 1999.<ref name="2A3" />  58 total built; 39 (1999) and 19 (2000).<ref name="Chronology" />
:* '''M20S Eagle 2''', introduced in 2001.  As Eagle but with a three-bladed propeller, a Garmin GNS430 system, a leather interior, rudder trim, and a ground power plug.  9 total built; 6 (2001), 2 (2002), and 1 (2003).<ref name="Chronology" />
;M20T Predator
:Military trainer variant designed for the [[United States Air Force]] Enhanced Flight Screener (EFS) competition in 1991.<ref name="AviationConsumer" />  Based on the M20J, the Predator is powered by a {{Convert|260|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Lycoming AEIO-540-D4B5 engine with the firewall moved {{Convert|5|in|cm|abbr=on}} back.  The cabin was replaced with a two-seat cockpit with a sliding [[bubble canopy]], and the vertical stabilizer was lengthened by {{Convert|6|in|cm|abbr=on}}.  Only a single prototype was built.<ref>Simpson 1995, p. 256.</ref>
;M20TN
:* '''M20TN Acclaim''', circular engine cooling intakes and winglets.<ref name=":19" />  Certified December 22, 2006.  Of the 143 M20TNs built, the first 89 were the original Acclaim.<ref name="2A3" /><ref name=":19" />
:* '''M20TN Acclaim Type S''', announced in September 2007.  As Acclaim but with modified wingtips, a streamlined cowling with enlarged engine cooling intakes, and other improvements.<ref name=":19" />
;M20U Ovation Ultra
:Development of the M20R with cabin doors on both sides of the fuselage, a Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpit, and other improvements.<ref name=":19">Left blank intentionally</ref>  Certified March 28, 2017.<ref name="2A3" />
;M20V Acclaim Ultra
:Development of the M20TN with cabin doors on both sides of the fuselage, a Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpit, and other improvements.<ref name=":19" />  Certified March 28, 2017.<ref name="2A3" />
;[[Mooney TX-1|MT20 TX-1]]
:Military trainer variant based on the M20J with a sliding clear-view roof canopy.  The TX-1 was powered by a {{Convert|240|hp|kW|abbr=on}} Continental TSIO-360-GB engine driving a two-bladed propeller and had four [[Hardpoint|hardpoints]] under the wings for weapons training and light attack missions.  Demand for the aircraft was too low to justify production, and only a single prototype was built.<ref name=":4">Simpson 1995, p. 255.</ref><ref name="AI Aug83p101-22">''Air International'' August 1983, pp. 101–102.</ref>
;M22 Mark 22
:Twin-engine development of the M20 with strengthened wings, an enlarged vertical stabilizer, and powered by two {{Convert|180|hp|kW|abbr=on}} [[Lycoming O-360]] engines.  One prototype was built in 1958, but further development was abandoned after flight testing.<ref>Ball 1998, p. 57–59.</ref>  Not to be confused with the unrelated [[Mooney M22 Mustang]].
;Rocket 305
:In 1990, Rocket Engineering Corp. of [[Spokane, Washington]], modified an M20K 231 model by replacing the standard turbocharged {{convert|210|hp|abbr=on}} Continental TSIO-360 engine and two-blade propeller with a turbocharged {{convert|305|hp|abbr=on}} Continental TSIO-520-NB and a McCauley three-blade propeller.  This engine and propeller combination had previously been proven on the twin-engined [[Cessna 340]] and [[Cessna 414]].  Marketed as the Rocket 305, this variant delivered a 228-[[Knot (unit)|knot]] speed and 1,600 feet/minute rate of climb.<ref>{{cite web |title=Rocket Performance |url=http://www.rocketengineering.com/content/rocket-performance |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170404192041/http://www.rocketengineering.com/content/rocket-performance |archive-date=April 4, 2017 |access-date=24 July 2017 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>  By September 2017, the Rocket conversion had been discontinued by Rocket Engineering.<ref>{{cite web |title=Mooney 305 Rocket |url=http://www.rocketengineering.com/content/mooney-305-rocket |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170917171309/http://www.rocketengineering.com/content/mooney-305-rocket |archive-date=September 17, 2017 |access-date=24 July 2017 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

==Aircraft on display==
[[File:The Sugar Bird Memorial plane at Jandakot Airport.jpg|thumbnail|Mooney M20H preserved near [[Jandakot Airport]] as part of a memorial to [[Robin Miller (nurse)|Robin Miller]]]]

The Mooney M20H engineering prototype is on display at [[Jandakot Airport]] in [[Jandakot, Western Australia]].  The aircraft is painted to represent the M20E used by [[Robin Miller (nurse)|Robin Miller]], an [[Australians|Australian]] female pilot known as the "Sugar Bird Lady" for her work in distributing the [[polio vaccine]] across Australia.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/news/historic-sugar-bird-lady-monument-restored-jandakot-airport/|title=Historic Sugar Bird Lady monument restored at Jandakot Airport|date=11 December 2015|access-date=24 July 2017|publisher=Royal Flying Doctor Service|archive-date=April 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418023330/https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/news/historic-sugar-bird-lady-monument-restored-jandakot-airport/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Left blank intentionally</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-03-29 |title=Other preserved (non-flying) aircraft in Western Australia |url=https://www.aviationwa.org.au/aviation-lists-information/other-preserved-non-flying-aircraft-in-western-australia/ |access-date=2024-08-21 |website=AviationWA |language=en-AU}}</ref>

==Specifications==
{{multiple image
 |total_width = 500
 | image1 = Mooney M20C Ranger 3-view line drawing.png
 | alt1 = 3-view line drawing of the Mooney M20C Ranger
 | caption1 = 3-view line drawing of the Mooney M20C Ranger
 | image2 = Mooney M20G Statesman 3-view line drawing.png
 | alt2 = 3-view line drawing of the Mooney M20G Statesman
 | caption2 = 3-view line drawing of the Mooney M20G Statesman
}}

These are the specifications for the 2016 M20 Acclaim Ultra.
{{Aircraft specs
|prime units?=kts 
|ref=Mooney website<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mooney.com/en/pdf/ultra/specs.pdf|title=Acclaim Ultra '16 Specifications|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170306005334/http://www.mooney.com/en/pdf/ultra/specs.pdf|archive-date = 6 March 2017}}</ref>
|crew= one
|capacity={{cvt|1000|lb|kg|0}} useful load or three passengers
|length ft= 26
|length in= 8 
|length m= 
|span ft= 36
|span in= 6 
|span m= 
|height ft= 8
|height in= 4 
|height m= 
|empty weight lb= 2380  
|empty weight kg= 
|gross weight lb= 3380  
|gross weight kg= 
|max takeoff weight lb= 3368  
|max takeoff weight kg= 
|eng1 name=[[Continental IO-550|Continental TSIO-550-G]]
|eng1 type=air-cooled, 6-cylinder, horizontally opposed piston engine
|eng1 number=1
|prop blade number = 3
|prop name= Hartzell Scimitar Three-Blade
|eng1 hp= 280 
|eng1 kw= 209 
|max speed kts= 242
|cruise speed kts= 175 
|cruise speed mph= 
|cruise speed kmh= 
|cruise speed note=([[True airspeed|TAS]])
|never exceed speed main= <!--knots--> 
|never exceed speed alt= <!--mph,km/h--> 
|stall speed kts= 53 
|stall speed mph= 
|stall speed kmh= 
|range nmi= 1100  
|range note=(standard tanks)
|range miles= 
|range km= 
|ceiling ft= 25,000 
|ceiling m= 
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|related=
|similar aircraft=
* [[Beechcraft Bonanza]]
* [[Cirrus SR22]]
|lists=
|see also=
}}

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

===Bibliography===
* AOPA Air Safety Foundation, ''Mooney Aircraft Safety Review'', AOPA, U.S.A., 1991
* Eric Broumand Nesbit Evans, ''Dynamics of flight, stability and control'' McGraw (Chi Migi) 2005
* Professor Munib Kirdoggy Sagpur, ''Flight Dynamics'', East Fremantle AOPA Publishing, 1995

==External links==
{{commons category|Mooney M20}}
* [http://www.mooneyevents.com/chrono.htm Mooney Model Chronology (1948–2006)]
* [http://www.mooneyevents.com/review.htm The Al Mooney Story: They All Fly Through the Same Air]
* [http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library%5CrgMakeModel.nsf/0/2021AD9DDDF42789862574560062A598?OpenDocument FAA aircraft type certificate]
* [http://www.mooney.com/en/models.html Mooney models]

{{Mooney Aviation Company aircraft}}

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