What happened
On July 20, 2025, at approximately 0800 EDT, a PIPER PA46-500TP Meridian, registration N819MA, was involved in a fatal accident in Lititz, Pennsylvania. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight. Prior to departure, the aircraft had been fueled with approximately 170 gallons of Jet A and Prist fuel additive.
The pilot, an instrument-rated private pilot with approximately 2,350 total flight hours, received an IFR clearance from Lancaster Regional Airport (LNS) to State College Regional Airport (UNCA). After being instructed to hold short while awaiting an IFR release, the pilot was cleared for takeoff with a left turn on course. The pilot did not read back the takeoff instruction.
After the aircraft rotated and lifted off, ADS-B data indicated that at an altitude of 650 feet mean sea level and a ground speed of 136 knots, the airplane suddenly pitched down into a descent of -1600 feet per minute. Approximately 20 seconds after takeoff, the aircraft impacted a cornfield roughly 1/4 mile from the end of the runway. The pilot was the sole occupant of the aircraft and sustained 1 fatal injury.
At the time of the accident, weather conditions at LNS included 5 miles visibility, mist, broken clouds at 400 and 900 feet AGL, and winds from 200 degrees at 3 knots.
The investigation
The aircraft wreckage showed significant impact damage. The airframe was compressed, and the engine and propeller created an impact crater. The left wing separated from the fuselage at the wing root and was found resting on the engine, while the right wing remained attached to the airframe. The propeller, shaft, and forward reduction gearbox broke free from the engine; the propeller exhibited rotational damage and the separation of one blade.
Maintenance records indicated the aircraft was manufactured in 2015 and had completed its most recent annual inspection on March 14, 2025. The wreckage was retained for further examination.