What happened
During the pre-flight or takeoff preparation phase, the pilot configured the aircraft's engine mixture controls incorrectly. Specifically, the controls were set to an intermediate lean position rather than the full rich setting required for takeoff operations. Shortly after initiating the takeoff roll and becoming airborne, the right engine lost power and stopped running. The failure occurred at a very low altitude, approximately 300 feet above ground level.
Faced with the loss of one engine so close to the ground, the pilot evaluated the options for continuing the flight or returning to the departure airport. Determining that a single-engine return was not feasible or safe at that altitude and distance, the pilot elected to land straight ahead. The aircraft touched down on the remaining runway or adjacent terrain without further incident described in the source.
The investigation
Following the event, investigators interviewed the pilot to determine the root cause of the engine failure. When questioned regarding the specific setting of the lean mixture controls at takeoff, the pilot provided a clear explanation for the configuration error. She stated that her mechanic had instructed her to set the mixture in that manner. This testimony indicates that the improper configuration was not due to pilot ignorance or negligence, but rather adherence to incorrect maintenance advice.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this incident was the improper operation of the engine mixture controls. The right engine failed to produce adequate power because it was leaned out too far for takeoff conditions. This error led directly to the loss of thrust required to maintain flight or return to the airport safely. The pilot's decision to land straight ahead was a prudent response to the immediate emergency, given the low altitude at which the failure occurred.