Accident Summary
On July 27, 2024, at approximately 1358 eastern daylight time, a Piper J3C-65, registration N77522, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Groveland, Florida. The pilot and one passenger received minor injuries. The flight was conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Aircraft and Flight
The aircraft departed from Gore Airport (4FL9) in Haines City, Florida, with 17 gallons of fuel aboard. The pilot flew for about 1 hour and 30 minutes before landing at Williston Municipal Airport (X60) in Williston, Florida. Upon attempting to refuel, the pilot discovered that the airport's fuel pumps were out of order. After calculating the remaining fuel on board, the pilot departed for the destination.
Accident Sequence
Approximately 1 hour into the subsequent flight, the engine lost power completely. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the issue but was unable to restore power as the aircraft continued to descend. A forced landing was executed into wooded terrain. The aircraft came to rest in a tree canopy approximately 31 miles northwest of Gore Airport.
Postaccident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and found substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. The wreckage was retained for further examination.