Accident Details
On January 15, 2025, at approximately 1630 central standard time, a Piper PA-25-250 airplane, registration N8051P, was substantially damaged during a landing accident near Tyler, Texas. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight was conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Pre-Flight and Takeoff
According to the pilot, prior to the accident flight, the airplane's battery was not charged. To start the engine, the airplane was connected to a truck using jumper cables. After starting, the airplane took off from runway 04 at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport (TYR) and was cleared for a left turn from the airport.
In-Flight Emergency
As the pilot began the left turn, he observed sparking and smoke emanating from the instrument panel. The cabin began to fill with smoke. He turned off the generator switch, and the sparking and smoke subsided. The pilot then turned back toward TYR. At this point, the aircraft radios were not operating. The pilot switched the generator back on to communicate with air traffic control (ATC). After he turned the generator back on, the sparking and smoke resumed. He again turned off the generator.
Landing and Gear Collapse
While on the base leg of the traffic pattern, the pilot turned on the generator to lower the landing gear. He believed the landing gear was down and locked and turned the generator off again. He continued the approach and landing. During the landing roll, the landing gear collapsed, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane's lower fuselage.
Post-Accident Information
The airplane was a Piper PA-25-250. The accident location was near Tyler, Texas. No further details about the weather or ATC communication were provided in the source.