October 23, 2026 | Lumberton, New Jersey. A small aircraft crashed and caught fire Friday morning in Burlington County, New Jersey, leaving its pilot injured and prompting an investigation by federal aviation authorities.
The crash occurred shortly after 9 a.m. near Flying W Airport & Resort, close to the border between Lumberton and Medford townships.
Aircraft Crashes Shortly After Takeoff
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft was a single-engine Piper PA-28, and the pilot was the only person on board.
The plane went down in an open field just north of the airport runway shortly after taking off.
Emergency responders arrived to find the aircraft badly damaged, with sections of the plane scattered across the field.
Authorities confirmed that the aircraft had caught fire following the crash.
Pilot Airlifted to Hospital
The injured pilot was transported by medical helicopter to a hospital.
Lumberton Police Lieutenant Christopher Cheesman said the pilot was conscious and alert when emergency personnel transported him.
The full extent of the pilot’s injuries has not been released.
No additional injuries were reported.
Witness Raises Questions About Engine Power
An airport employee told The Philadelphia Inquirer that the aircraft appeared to struggle to gain altitude after takeoff.
According to the employee, the plane failed to climb normally before turning toward a nearby field.
However, investigators have not determined whether mechanical problems contributed to the accident.
Federal Investigation Underway
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the crash.
Officials will examine the aircraft, flight circumstances and other available evidence to determine what caused the accident.
The incident also prompted temporary road closures near the airport as emergency personnel secured the scene.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Sources: NBC10 Philadelphia | FOX 29 Philadelphia | The Philadelphia Inquirer | ABC7.
By NJ RADAR Team