ERA26LA319

On August 29, 2026, about 1030 central daylight time, a Piper PA-22-150, N5731D, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Pace, Florida. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot, who was also the owner of the airplane, stated that he was departing from J-22 Ranch Airport (16FL), Milton, Florida, after the completion of some avionics related maintenance. The engine run-up was normal, and the magneto test was within the normal range. He was performing a soft field takeoff from the grass runway with “1 notch” of flap extension. After the airplane lifted off the runway and climbed about 30 ft, the engine lost partial power and the rpm dropped from 2,400 to 1,700 rpm. He then leveled the airplane about 200 ft above the ground to gain airspeed, but the airspeed did not increase. The pilot attempted to land in a peanut field; however, the airplane contacted treetops prior to the field and impacted the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to both wings. The wreckage was retained for further examination.