What happened
During the takeoff roll from a runway with a length of 2100 feet, the pilot recognized that the aircraft was overloaded for the prevailing conditions. Approximately 100 feet from the end of the runway, the pilot attempted to reduce weight by opening the dump gate. However, lumps of fertilizer located in the bottom of the hopper prevented the cargo from dumping as intended. Unable to gain sufficient altitude or speed to clear the obstacle, the aircraft struck a row of hedge trees situated approximately 350 feet beyond the end of the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical operation of the cargo dump system and the physical evidence at the crash site. Examination revealed that the fertilizer load had not released due to obstructions within the hopper. The aircraft failed to clear the trees located just beyond the runway threshold, confirming the pilot's report regarding the inability to become airborne safely.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident were the overloaded condition of the aircraft and the failure of the cargo dump mechanism. The presence of lumps in the hopper prevented the necessary weight reduction during a critical phase of flight. The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff with an excessive load, combined with the mechanical obstruction, resulted in the loss of controlled flight and collision with terrain.
Safety message
Pilots must ensure that aircraft are within weight and balance limits before commencing takeoff. In emergency situations requiring immediate weight reduction, it is critical to verify that cargo securing mechanisms are free of obstructions that could prevent successful dumping.