Aircraft and Flight Details
The accident involved a twin-engine tailwheel cargo airplane. The pilot reported that during takeoff, she felt the airplane yaw to the right. In response, she applied left rudder and set differential power, intending to correct for what she perceived as a right crosswind.
Sequence of Events
As the airplane lifted off, it executed a sharp right turn and alternated between left and right banks before leveling off. Subsequently, it collided with the ground. After impact, the airplane slid through security fences and a fuel supply depot before coming to a stop.
Post-Accident Observations
Examination revealed that the cargo, consisting of newspaper bundles covered in plastic wrapper, had moved from the two forward cargo bays to the aft end of the cargo compartment. The cargo compartment floor was noted to be slippery when walked upon and had traces of snow. The left throttle was found in the full forward position, while the right throttle was located one inch aft of the full forward position.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the cargo was covered by a cargo net that was secured at the forward end but not at the aft end. Two cargo straps were crisscrossed over the net and secured at the aft end of the cargo load. The pilot also stated that she applied left rudder and differential power to counteract the yaw and perceived crosswind during takeoff.