Accident Overview
On May 11, 2025, at approximately 1231 central daylight time, a Piper PA46-350P, registration N253MA, was involved in an accident near Greenwood, Indiana. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, and the pilot and passenger received serious injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Preflight and Takeoff
The pilot reported that the airplane had been converted from its original piston engine to a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-35 turbo-propeller engine. During preflight, the engine started normally, but when the pilot advanced the throttle lever to taxi, power did not increase. After allowing the engine to run for some time, the pilot made another taxi attempt, and the engine responded normally. Pre-takeoff engine and propeller checks were reported as normal.
Loss of Power
The pilot proceeded for takeoff on runway 1 at Indy South Greenwood Airport (HFY). The airplane accelerated to 80 knots, at which point the pilot rotated for takeoff. When the aircraft reached about 100 feet above ground level, the engine lost all power. The pilot instinctively advanced the throttle lever, but there was no resulting increase in power.
Forced Landing and Impact
Without engine power, the airplane impacted a taxiway on the west side of the runway and slid to a stop, striking an embankment during the impact sequence. The airplane received substantial damage to the fuselage.
Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and no probable cause has been determined at this time.