Incident Overview
On February 23, 2026, at approximately 0958 central standard time, a Grumman AA-5A airplane, registration N9939U, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Admire, Kansas. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Flight History
The airplane was equipped with long-range fuel tanks. The pilot reported that on the day of the accident, he fully fueled the airplane at Ellington Airport (LUG) in Lewisburg, Tennessee. According to ADS-B data and the pilot's recollection, the airplane departed LUG about 0440 and flew to Kansas City Downtown Airport – Wheeler Field (MKC) in Kansas City, Missouri, landing about 0825. After a brief stop, the airplane departed MKC about 0910 heading toward Council Grove Airport (K63) in Council Grove, Kansas.
Engine Power Loss
While the airplane was in cruise flight at an altitude of 2,500 ft mean sea level, the pilot reported that the engine RPM began to increase and then decrease. When the engine power decreased, he switched fuel tanks but was unable to restore engine power. He subsequently performed a forced landing to a field.
Damage
During the forced landing, the landing gear collapsed, and both wings were substantially damaged.
Post-Accident Actions
The airplane was retained for further examination.