What happened
On April 10, 2026, at approximately 1700 EDT, a Piper J3ASS-65, registration N92480, was involved in an accident near Baker, Florida. The flight was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
The pilot had previously completed a flight from Skypark Estates Owners Assoc Airport (18FD) for local pattern work, landing and parking the aircraft for approximately 30 minutes. During the second departure of the day, the pilot was accompanied by a passenger in the front seat.
While approaching Long Branch Farms Airport (2FA3), the pilot descended to 1,000 ft agl and entered the traffic pattern for runway 27 on a left downwind leg. During the descent on the base and final legs, the pilot utilized carburetor heat and reduced engine power to 1,500 rpm. As the aircraft leveled off at approximately 50 ft agl to perform a low approach for runway inspection, the pilot turned off the carburetor heat and advanced the throttle to cruise power.
As the aircraft climbed at approximately 60 mph following the low approach, the engine suffered a total loss of power at about 200 ft agl. The pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft toward a field through a gap in trees, but after turning to avoid power lines, the right wing struck a tree. This contact caused a significant right yaw and a loss of airspeed, after which the aircraft impacted the ground at a steep downward angle. The accident resulted in one serious injury and one minor injury.
The investigation
The wreckage of the aircraft was retained for examination.