What happened
On February 23, 2026, a Grumman AA-5A, registration N9939U, was involved in an accident near Admire, Kansas. The flight was operating under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
The aircraft departed Ellington Airport (LUG) in Lewisburg, Tennessee, at approximately 0440. After flying to Kansas City Downtown Airport – Wheeler Field (MKC), the aircraft departed MKC at approximately 0910, en route to Council Grove Airport (K63).
While cruising at 2,500 feet MSL, the pilot observed the engine RPM increase and subsequently decrease. The pilot attempted to restore engine power by switching fuel tanks, but the loss of power persisted. The pilot then performed a forced landing in a field. The impact resulted in the collapse of the landing gear and substantial damage to both wings. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
The aircraft was retained for further examination.