ERA26LA040

On November 16, 2025, about 0845 eastern standard time, a Piper Pa-32R-301T, N327HP, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Woodfin Mill, Georgia. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 positioning flight. The pilot reported that he had about 100 gallons of aviation fuel and 8 1/2 quarts of oil and that the preflight, engine start and initial climb were normal. About 10 minutes into the flight, the engine began surging, but all of the gauges were in the green and indicated normal readings. The pilot initiated a turn back to the departure airport and shortly after, the engine began losing power. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot and ran the emergency checklist items but his attempts to restore full power were unsuccessful and the engine power continued to deteriorate. The pilot declared an emergency and attempted to make a forced landing on a nearby private grass strip, but during maneuvering for the approach, the engine lost all remaining power, and he was unable to make it to the intended landing site. With limited options, he attempted a landing on a farm pasture that was surrounded by trees and powerlines. During short final, the airplane cleared the trees, but the pilot was unable to fly over the powerlines due to the low airspeed and rate of descent. The airplane’s left wing contacted a powerline line shortly before touchdown and the airplane landed hard, shearing off the nose landing gear and collapsing the mains before skidding to a stop. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the wings and airframe; the left wing was broken mid spar, and the engine compartment was significantly canted upwards. The airplane was recovered to a secure location for further examination.