Introduction
On November 24, 2025, at about 1427 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-24-180, registration N8328P, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near South Brooksville, Florida. The pilot and two passengers were not injured. The flight was conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Flight Details
The flight originated from Talladega Municipal Airport (ASN) in Talladega, Alabama. The pilot departed ASN at about 0830 with 56 gallons of fuel onboard. The airplane landed at Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport (GVL) in Gainesville, Georgia, at about 0930, where two passengers boarded. The intended route was to proceed to Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) in Lakeland, Florida, and then return to ASN. The pilot departed GVL at about 1100.
Throughout the flight, the pilot monitored fuel consumption using the fuel gauges and switched fuel tanks every 30 minutes.
Engine Power Loss
About 3 hours into the flight to Lakeland, the airplane experienced a partial loss of engine power. The pilot switched fuel tanks and activated the electric fuel pump, and engine power was restored. The pilot then contacted air traffic control and was informed that Brooksville-Tampa Bay Regional Airport (BKV) in Tampa, Florida, was about 3 miles ahead. Shortly thereafter, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot was unable to restore power and declared an emergency.
Forced Landing
The pilot performed a forced landing in a field. During the landing, with the landing gear retracted, the right wing and right stabilator impacted a fence before the airplane came to rest in a grassy field about 2 miles northwest of Brooksville-Tampa Bay Regional Airport.
Post-Accident Examination
Photographs taken by a Hernando County Sheriff’s Office deputy showed substantial damage to the right stabilator. The photographs also indicated that no fuel was visible in the fuel tanks. The airplane was retained for further examination.