What happened
The pilot utilized the nosewheel steering system (NWSS) while taxiing from the FBO to the runway. After back-taxiing down the runway and performing a 180-degree turn, the pilot began the takeoff roll without stopping. No malfunctions of the NWSS were reported prior to the start of the takeoff.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot experienced difficulty steering the aircraft. As the engines spooled up, the aircraft tracked to the right of the runway centerline. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation using the NWSS, which caused the aircraft to veer left and then right while accelerating.
The pilot initiated abort procedures before reaching 80 knots but was unable to regain directional control. To stop the aircraft, the pilot retarded the thrust levers to idle, applied maximum braking, and selected reverse thrust. However, as the engines spooled up, the aircraft accelerated because the thrust reversers failed to activate. Following the shutdown of the engines, the aircraft struck 3 parked aircraft before coming to a complete stop.
The investigation
Investigators examined the early model (Dowty Rotol) nosewheel steering system and the thrust reversers. Post-accident examinations of both the NWSS and the thrust reversers revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure.