Accident Details
On January 27, 2026, at 1439 central standard time, a Diamond Aircraft Ind. Inc. DA-40 NG, registration N708BL, was substantially damaged in an accident near Bay Minette, Alabama. The aircraft was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight. The flight instructor and a student pilot sustained minor injuries.
Flight Sequence
The flight was a stage check in preparation for the student pilot's private pilot checkride. According to the pilots, no problems were reported during preflight, taxi, runup, takeoff, climb, or cruise to the designated practice area, approximately 12 nautical miles northwest of Pensacola International Airport (PNS), Pensacola, Florida.
After performing an intentional slow flight maneuver and applying full power for recovery to normal flight, the pilots observed oscillations in engine rpm and engine power load percentage. The flight instructor took control and asked the student to locate the checklist for oscillating engine rpm. The checklist was performed but did not resolve the oscillations.
Diversion and Emergency
The flight instructor decided to divert to Bay Minette Airport (1R8) in Bay Minette, Alabama. She announced on the airport's common traffic advisory frequency and declared an emergency with Pensacola terminal radar approach control. The pilots then performed the emergency procedure for a dual engine control unit failure, but the oscillations continued.
Shortly thereafter, annunciations for low coolant level and low oil pressure appeared, followed by a loss of engine power. The flight instructor attempted an engine restart but was unsuccessful. After securing the engine, she looked for a suitable area for a forced landing. Reporting no good options, she made a forced landing into dense brush about 1 nautical mile east of 1R8.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the wings and empennage. Upon removing the engine cowling, an outward puncture in the engine case was found along with thermal damage to several engine accessories. A dark-colored liquid, consistent with oil, was observed on the underside of the fuselage and empennage. Approximately 20 gallons of liquid consistent with Jet-A fuel were recovered from the airplane.
The wreckage was recovered and retained for further examination.
Probable Cause
Not stated in the source.
Safety Considerations
No conclusions or recommendations are provided in the source.