Casualties unknown

Smoke Fills Cockpit During Initial Climb; Aircraft Strikes Tree After Engine Failure (N9592P)

Ocala, FL, US

On April 16, 1986, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N9592P) was involved in an aviation accident near Ocala, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

While calibrating spray equipment, the pilot loaded 70 gallons of water and initiated takeoff. At about 100 feet AGL, smoke filled the cockpit and the engine failed. The aircraft struck a tree on descent, resulting in substantial damage.

Accident Overview

The purpose of the flight was to calibrate the spray equipment. The pilot loaded the hopper with approximately 70 gallons of water and initiated a takeoff.

Accident Sequence

During the initial climb, at about 100 feet above ground level (AGL), the cockpit filled with smoke and the engine failed. The aircraft struck a tree on descent and was substantially damaged.

Post-Accident Examination

Post-accident examination revealed that the magneto wires on both magnetos were grounding and the insulation on the wires was burned.

Inspection History

The aircraft had an annual inspection five flights and two weeks prior to the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Apr 1986 Piper PA-25-235 accident near Ocala, FL?

While calibrating spray equipment, the pilot loaded 70 gallons of water and initiated takeoff. At about 100 feet AGL, smoke filled the cockpit and the engine failed. The aircraft struck a tree on descent, resulting in substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Apr 1986 involved a Piper PA-25-235, registration N9592P, at Ocala, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33356. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.