Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the flight crew experienced a loss of power in the left engine. The cause was identified as corrosion that had blocked the main jet within the fuel control unit. The pilot responded by feathering the left engine and initiating a return to the airport for landing.
Landing Gear Extension Issue
While on short final approach, the pilot recalled that the landing gear hydraulic pump was installed on the left engine. Because that engine was no longer operating, the landing gear would require manual extension. The pilot proceeded to manually extend the landing gear. By the time the extension was completed, the aircraft was already halfway down the runway.
Go-Around Attempt
At that point, the pilot attempted a go-around. The aircraft was configured with the landing gear extended and only one engine operating. During the go-around, altitude and airspeed could not be maintained. The pilot then attempted to land on the taxiway of an adjacent runway.
Landing and Excursion
The aircraft touched down hard on the taxiway. It subsequently ran off the left side of the taxiway and entered a ditch.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the initial engine power loss was corrosion blocking the main jet in the fuel control unit.