Post-Takeoff Left Turn and Terrain Collision Following Reported Garment Bag Ejection (N180PB)

Accident Sequence

Shortly after lift-off, the pilot communicated to the tower his intention to return for landing. The tower controller observed the airplane executing a standard rate left turn at approximately 50 feet above ground level with a slow airspeed. During the turn, the nose of the airplane suddenly dropped, and the airplane collided with level open terrain.

Witness Observations

Witnesses reported seeing an object fall from the airplane near the end of the runway. This object was later identified as a garment bag.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the wreckage revealed that both cabin doors were secured and locked. The nose baggage door had been consumed by fire. Both latches of the nose baggage door were found on the ground beneath the airplane's nose. The internal locking mechanism of these latches was in the locked position. Investigators noted that the latches can be locked without the door being completely closed.