On a November morning in 2023, Charles Walker Pickering, Jr. was piloting his Piper PA-32R-301T aircraft from Tennessee to Alabama when the plane experienced engine failure and crashed near Attalla, Alabama. The accident resulted in Mr. Pickering’s death.
An investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration found that fractured gear assemblies and missing gear teeth in the magneto and idler gears contributed to the engine failure. These components are critical for proper engine function.
Following these findings, Beasley Allen Law Firm and Greene & Phillips filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Baldwin County Circuit Court on behalf of Mr. Pickering’s estate. The suit names Textron Inc., Lycoming Engines, Champion Aerospace, Continental Aerospace Technologies, Sarasota Avionics, Anson Air, and LSA Services as defendants. The complaint alleges negligence related to the design, manufacture, inspection, and maintenance of essential engine parts. It claims that service providers failed to identify significant problems with the magneto, crankshaft idler gear, and fuel pump assembly.
The legal action seeks damages under Alabama law through claims of product liability under the Alabama Extended Manufacturers Liability Doctrine (AEMLD), negligence and wantonness in design, manufacturing, and maintenance practices, as well as wrongful death. Punitive damages are also being sought to hold all responsible parties accountable and deter similar incidents in the future. A jury trial has been requested.
Mike Andrews of Beasley Allen is leading this case. He is known for his work representing families affected by major aviation disasters such as the Boeing 737 Max 8 crashes and currently advocates for over 125 families impacted by the Air India Flight 171 crash.
"This case is more than a legal battle—it’s a call for stronger safety standards in aviation," said Mike Andrews.
"Whether it’s a catastrophic airline disaster or a small plane accident, experienced aviation attorneys help families navigate complex legal terrain and fight for the compensation they deserve," he added.