Collision with terrain involving a Piper PA-32R-300, 56 km from Tindal, Northern Territory, on 21 November 2025

What happened

On 21 November 2025 at approximately 1135 Central Standard Time, the pilot of a Piper PA‑32R was conducting a private flight from Numbulwar Aerodrome to Tindal Aerodrome, Northern Territory. During cruise the aircraft engine experienced a sudden loss of performance and subsequently failed at 2,500 ft above mean sea level. 

The pilot undertook immediate engine failure actions and attempted multiple restarts but was unable to restore power. The pilot conducted a forced power-off landing in a clear area north of Bamyili, Northern Territory.

During the landing the aircraft impacted trees and uneven ground surfaces, resulting in substantial structural damage including a detached left wing tip and landing gear, a hole in the right wing and bent propellor blades. The pilot was able to self-evacuate and did not sustain any injuries.

Figure 1: Aircraft accident site

About this report

Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.