A tragic plane accident in Franklin Township, New Jersey, claimed the life of a 61-year-old pilot on Sunday, March 30, 2025. The crash involved a Cirrus SR22 aircraft that went down in a wooded area shortly after departing from Princeton Airport.
The pilot, identified as Pankaj Mohan of Lawrenceville, was the sole occupant of the plane. He was en route to Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina when the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control mid-flight. Authorities were first alerted to a potential emergency at approximately 11:26 a.m., when communications with the single-engine aircraft abruptly ceased.
Risks of Small Aircraft Travel
While small aircraft like the Cirrus SR22 offer private pilots greater flexibility and convenience, they also present a range of operational and environmental risks. Mechanical failure, pilot error, and adverse weather conditions are among the leading causes of general aviation crashes. In this case, the flight was only minutes into its journey before it crashed, suggesting the possibility of engine trouble or flight control issues—though the cause has not yet been determined.
Small planes often operate under visual flight rules (VFR), which can add to the challenge of navigating safely in the event of mechanical failure, poor visibility, or severe weather conditions. Even highly experienced pilots can encounter dangerous conditions that develop rapidly and with little warning. Ongoing investigations by federal authorities aim to determine whether any such factors contributed to this incident.
FAA and NTSB Investigations Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken over the investigation, alongside the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Officials will examine aircraft maintenance records, flight data, communications logs, and the pilot’s flight history. Particular attention will be paid to environmental factors and mechanical systems onboard the aircraft. The crash site will remain closed to the public while investigators complete their work. Investigations like this can take weeks or even months to yield conclusive findings.
Legal Options After an Aviation Accident
The loss of a loved one in an aviation accident is devastating. In certain cases, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim—particularly if mechanical failure, negligent maintenance, or defective components played a role in the crash. A thorough investigation can uncover whether the aircraft manufacturer, maintenance provider, or another party may bear legal responsibility.
In addition to grieving their loss, families often face financial burdens, including funeral costs, medical bills, and the loss of future income. Pursuing a legal claim can help secure the financial support needed to move forward.
The plane crash lawyers at Spagnoletti Law Firm have experience handling complex aviation accident cases nationwide. Our team works closely with aviation experts to build strong claims on behalf of victims and their families.
📞 For a free consultation with an aviation accident attorney, contact 713-804-9306. There are no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.