Accident Summary
General Aviation Flight 115 was conducting a routine night departure. During the takeoff and initial climb, the left engine experienced a loss of power. The flight crew continued the climb-out, but upon application of water-methanol, the pilot lost directional control. The aircraft subsequently banked to the left, entered a descent, and struck the ground between parallel runways.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the left propeller's blade angle was 21 degrees. No preimpact system malfunctions or failures were identified. The left high-pressure (H.P.) cock lever was found positioned between the 'FUEL OFF' and 'FEATHER' positions. The checklist required the H.P. cock levers to be in 'CRUISE LOCKOUT' for takeoff. Movement of the left lever to the found position would have deactivated the auto-feather system and shut down the left engine.
Cockpit Voice Recorder Analysis
Analysis of the cockpit voice recording indicated that the flight crew did not complete all items on the before taxi/takeoff checklist. One of the items presumably not completed was a check of the H.P. cock levers.