What happened
On the day of the accident, the pilot attempted to depart eastbound from a 1,920-foot runway characterized by a soft, wet surface and a 2-degree upslope that terminated at a steep drop-off. According to a witness, the aircraft was heavily loaded with passengers and baggage. While official weather data at Dillingham, located approximately 20 miles east, indicated winds from 060 degrees at 5 knots at 1147 ADT, a witness reported that the wind at the departure site was from the east with gusts reaching 20 knots.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft experienced slow acceleration. Tire marks consistent with the aircraft indicated that it lifted off 261 feet before the end of the runway. Following lift-off, the airplane settled into a descending left turn and crashed.
The investigation
Investigators found no evidence of preimpact mechanical failure. However, an analysis of the aircraft's weight and balance revealed that the estimated weight was 4,011 pounds, which exceeded the maximum certificated gross weight of 3,600 pounds. Additionally, the center-of-gravity (CG) was measured at 97.8 inches, placing it outside the certified range of 90 to 95 inches.