Overview
An aircraft experienced a roll to the right following a premature liftoff attributed to a dip in the runway surface. The aircraft continued to roll right until it struck a 6-degree slope while in a 100-degree nose-down attitude. The accident was investigated, focusing on the sequence of events and engine performance.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft initiated its takeoff roll but became airborne prematurely because of a dip in the runway. Shortly after liftoff, it began rolling to the right. The roll continued unchecked, and the aircraft ultimately impacted terrain on a 6-degree slope, with the nose pitched down 100 degrees relative to the horizontal.
Engine Investigation
Examination of the engines revealed that the right engine had suffered a power loss. The cause was identified as a blockage of an internal muffler diffuser. The engine involved had a documented history of malfunctions, including hard starting, loss of power during takeoff, a tendency for the aircraft to yaw to the right in flight, and operation with an overly lean mixture leading to high cylinder head temperatures.