What happened
The pilot reported a sudden loss of power on the right engine at approximately 20 feet above the ground during the initial climb phase. Following this mechanical failure, the aircraft began to veer toward the right side of the runway. Recognizing the inability to maintain controlled flight or complete the departure, the pilot made the decision to abort the takeoff procedure immediately.
The aircraft touched down on the right side of the runway surface. Upon impact with a mound of dirt located near the edge of the paved area, the landing gear structure failed and collapsed under the stress. The takeoff had been initiated from an intersection along the runway, which limited the available distance for acceleration to 3,945 feet, despite the total runway length being 7,845 feet.
The investigation
Examination of the event focused on the sequence of events leading to the gear collapse. The primary finding was the structural failure of the landing gear following contact with terrain not intended for landing operations. The limited runway distance available due to the intersection takeoff clearance was noted as a contextual factor in the energy state of the aircraft at touchdown.
Findings
The critical factors contributing to this incident included the loss of power on the right engine during the critical low-altitude phase of flight. The decision to abort the takeoff resulted in a high-energy impact with an obstacle, leading to the collapse of the landing gear. The available runway distance for the takeoff roll was significantly reduced by the intersection departure point.
Safety message
Pilots must carefully calculate takeoff performance data based on the specific point of departure along the runway. Intersection takeoffs reduce available acceleration distance and may limit options for safe abort decisions in the event of an engine failure at low altitude.