Event Description
Shortly after taking off from Greater Wilmington Airport in Wilmington, Delaware, the aircraft experienced a loss of power from the left engine at approximately 100 feet above ground level, just as the landing gear was being retracted. The pilot reported that the autofeather system was armed but did not automatically feather the left propeller. He then manually feathered the propeller and confirmed that the landing gear was retracting.
Pilot Actions
Following the engine power loss, the airspeed decreased to about 100 knots. The pilot initiated a descent to achieve the best single-engine speed but found that level flight could not be sustained. Recognizing that a forced landing was inevitable, he climbed to clear a power line, lowered the landing gear and flaps, and landed in an open field.
Landing and Damage
During touchdown, the left landing gear struck a mound of dirt and separated from the aircraft. As the aircraft skidded to a stop, the right main landing gear also failed.
Investigation
An extensive investigation was conducted to determine the cause of the left engine power loss. Despite thorough examination, no reason for the engine failure was identified.