A small plane crash near Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU) on Thursday, April 17, 2025, resulted in the pilot being hospitalized after the aircraft lost engine power shortly after takeoff. The accident occurred around 3:37 p.m., just beyond the runway and close to Interstate 385.
According to local authorities, the aircraft—a Beechcraft A24R Sierra 200—was departing from Runway 1 when it reportedly experienced an engine malfunction mid-climb. The pilot, the sole occupant of the aircraft, attempted to maintain control but was unable to remain airborne. The plane crashed into a grassy area near Woods Lake Road, just beyond the airport’s perimeter. Emergency services, including the Greenville Police Department and fire personnel, quickly responded to the scene. The pilot was transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. The full extent of the pilot’s injuries has not been disclosed.
FAA Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is leading the investigation into what caused the engine to fail. As part of their standard procedure, officials will examine maintenance records, fuel quality, the aircraft’s operational history, and the pilot’s flight credentials.
The aircraft suffered significant structural damage in the crash, and investigators are working to determine whether mechanical failure, fuel starvation, or another system malfunction led to the sudden loss of power.
Risks of Engine Failure in General Aviation
While rare, engine failures during takeoff are among the most dangerous scenarios in general aviation. Aircraft operating at low altitude and slow speeds have limited time and space to make emergency decisions, increasing the risk of injury and destruction. Causes of engine failure can include:
- Mechanical or system malfunction
- Contaminated or insufficient fuel supply
- Maintenance oversight or component wear
- Pilot mismanagement during high-demand phases of flight
Proper preflight inspection, timely maintenance, and awareness of emergency procedures are all critical in minimizing the impact of in-flight failures.
Legal Rights Following an Aviation Accident
When an aircraft crash occurs due to a mechanical issue or third-party negligence—such as improper maintenance, faulty components, or fuel contamination—the pilot or their family may have legal grounds to seek compensation for injuries, lost income, and other damages.
An experienced aviation accident lawyer can help assess whether an aircraft manufacturer, service provider, or maintenance contractor may bear liability. Even in single-occupant accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the findings of the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigations.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
Spagnoletti Law Firm provides legal counsel in aviation accident cases across the United States, helping victims and families navigate the complex legal landscape following small plane crashes. If you or someone you love has been injured in a general aviation accident, it’s critical to secure legal advice to protect your rights.
📞 For a free consultation with a personal injury attorney experienced in aviation crashes, contact Spagnoletti Law Firm at 713-804-9306. There are no legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
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