What happened
During the takeoff roll, the pilot experienced a critical mechanical failure at the moment of rotation. The pilot's seat unexpectedly slid backward along its track. This movement displaced the pilot from the control position, making it impossible for them to reach or manipulate the flight controls.
Unable to maintain directional control or pitch attitude, the aircraft continued down the runway past the departure end. It then struck terrain immediately adjacent to the airfield.
The investigation
Following the accident, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors examined the aircraft seat mechanism. Their inspection determined that the seat hardware was in compliance with the applicable Airworthiness Directive (AD).
Further testing revealed that the sliding incident could only be reproduced when the seat locking mechanism was deliberately placed between its designated lock positions. Under normal operational conditions, the seat should remain fixed.