A small aircraft carrying five people to a pickleball tournament crashed after breaking apart midair near Austin, Texas, according to a preliminary federal investigation report released recently.

The plane was transporting the passengers to a pickleball tournament when the fatal incident occurred. All five people aboard the aircraft were killed in the crash.

The preliminary report from federal investigators indicates the aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup before impact. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and the preliminary findings represent initial observations rather than final conclusions about the cause.

Federal aviation safety investigators typically conduct thorough examinations of aircraft accidents, reviewing factors including weather conditions, mechanical issues, pilot performance, and aircraft maintenance records. The final report, which will include probable cause determinations, is expected to be released at a later date.

Pickleball has grown rapidly in popularity across the United States in recent years, with tournaments and competitive events drawing participants from wide geographic areas who often travel by private aircraft to attend competitions.