NTSB has recently released its preliminary report into a fatal aircraft accident near Tampa, Florida, providing the first official account of what happened during the flight.

On September 3, 2026, an experimental amateur-built Evolution aircraft, registration N305PV, departed Tampa Executive Airport on an IFR flight bound for Elizabeth City Regional Airport, North Carolina. The pilot correctly acknowledged the IFR clearance and takeoff instructions, but no further communications were received.

According to ADS-B data and security video reviewed by investigators, the aircraft lifted off about halfway down the 5,000-foot runway at approximately 80 knots. It then made a steep, nose-high 180-degree left turn before descending nose-down into terrain.

The wreckage was found in a wooded area about one-third of a mile northwest of the Runway 5 touchdown zone. Investigators documented a debris path through trees before the aircraft came to rest inverted. A post-crash fire consumed much of the composite airframe.

The aircraft was powered by a 550-horsepower Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop and had accumulated 581 hours since new. Its most recent condition inspection had been completed on August 26, 2026.

Weather conditions at the time were reported as IMC, with an overcast ceiling of just 500 feet AGL, 10-mile visibility and winds from 050° at 4 knots.

Both the commercial pilot and passenger were fatally injured. The NTSB says the preliminary information is subject to change as the investigation continues. The wreckage has been retained for further examination, and the preliminary report does not establish the probable cause of the accident.