Accident Overview
On August 14, 2025, at about 1915 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-12, registration N4014M, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Pembroke Pines, Florida. The private pilot sustained serious injuries, and the passenger received a minor injury. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.
Sequence of Events
The pilot and passenger reported that they were preparing to take off on runway 19. According to the pilot, the wind was from 240° at 5 knots. After the application of full power, the airplane began rolling down the runway. The tail lifted off the ground, and the airplane immediately yawed to the left. Application of full right rudder was ineffective in correcting the yaw, and the airplane departed the runway surface.
The pilot reduced power but was unable to stop the airplane. The airplane impacted a sloped concrete and dirt berm, went airborne, then impacted an airport perimeter fence before coming to rest.
Damage
The resulting impact resulted in substantial damage to the airframe and wings; the wing spar was broken, and the engine compartment was crushed and displaced aft.
Wreckage
The wreckage was retained for further examination.