Accident Overview
On October 10, 2025, at approximately 2015 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172G, registration N4390L, was substantially damaged after impacting trees near Sandersville, Georgia. The pilot was not injured, and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 positioning flight.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, maintenance had just been completed on the airplane, and the purpose of the flight was to return it to its home base. He performed a normal preflight inspection and noted that the engine run-up was normal. He also confirmed that he had used a measuring stick to check the fuel quantity. During departure, the airplane lifted off, but about 250 feet above ground level, the engine rpm began to drop. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot by “pumping” the throttle lever and verifying the fuel selector position. The airplane could not maintain altitude and impacted the tops of trees.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the wing fuel tanks contained fluid that smelled and appeared visually consistent with automotive fuel. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Data Retention
The airplane was equipped with avionics capable of recording airframe and engine data. These units were retained for further examination and data download. The wreckage was also retained for further examination.