Casualties unknown

No Mechanical or Medical Cause Found in VFR Crash Under Moonlit Sky (N4081R)

St. Cloud, FL, US

On February 26, 1986, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N4081R) operated by Cherokee Leasing,inc. was involved in an aviation accident near St. Cloud, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A VFR flight crashed in a field under clear skies with a nearly full moon. No mechanical or structural failures were found. Autopsy showed no pilot impairment. The impact was shallow and high-speed. The pilot held two jobs: construction by day, air taxi by night.

Accident Overview

The aircraft was operating under visual flight rules (VFR) when it crashed in a field. Weather conditions were clear, and the moon was nearly full at the time of the accident. The crash site and wreckage distribution indicated that the aircraft struck the ground in a shallow descent while traveling at high speed.

Investigation Findings

A thorough examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of any malfunction or failure in the airframe, flight control system, engine, or propeller. All components were present and showed no signs of pre-impact distress. Additionally, autopsy and toxicological studies of the pilot were conducted. These studies found no pre-existing medical condition or illness that could have adversely affected the pilot's ability to operate the aircraft.

Pilot Employment

The pilot maintained two separate positions of employment. During daytime hours, the pilot worked for a construction company. During nighttime hours, the pilot engaged in air taxi operations.

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Feb 1986 Piper PA-32-300 accident near St. Cloud, FL?

A VFR flight crashed in a field under clear skies with a nearly full moon. No mechanical or structural failures were found. Autopsy showed no pilot impairment. The impact was shallow and high-speed. The pilot held two jobs: construction by day, air taxi by night.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Feb 1986 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N4081R, operated by Cherokee Leasing,inc., at St. Cloud, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32906. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.