What happened
Seconds after takeoff, the engines of the aircraft experienced a loss of partial power. Witnesses observed black smoke trailing from the airplane during the climb. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot performed a ditching maneuver. The aircraft sank in water approximately 20 feet deep, located 1.25 miles from the airport. There were no reported fatalities among the passengers.
The investigation
The aircraft was recovered and underwent examination. During engine testing in a test cell, investigators identified several maintenance-related deficiencies. While full power could be achieved, the fuel flow rates for both engines exceeded design specifications, resulting in overly rich mixtures and the observed black smoke. Furthermore, the left magneto of the right engine experienced internal arcing, and five of the twelve spark plugs were found to be worn beyond allowable limits.
Additional factors identified during the investigation included a density altitude of 4,300 feet and an aircraft weight that exceeded the maximum certificated gross weight by at least 160 pounds. The center of gravity was also measured at 1.09 inches aft of the rear limit. The pilot admitted to not requesting a weather briefing or performing weight and balance calculations prior to departure. Additionally, the passengers had not been instructed to secure their shoulder harnesses, and unsecured baggage was present in the aft section because tie-down straps had been removed.