On February 26, 2003, a Piper PA-44-180 (registration N711AV) was involved in an aviation accident near Blue Bell, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During departure on a 3,700-foot asphalt runway, the airplane yawed aggressively to the right, departed the runway, and struck a snowbank. A witness noted the right propeller appeared slower. No mechanical anomalies were found.
Departure and Yaw
The airplane was initiating takeoff on a 3,700-foot-long, 75-foot-wide asphalt runway. The pilot reported that after applying power to both engines and traveling approximately 300 feet down the runway, an "aggressive" yaw to the right occurred. The pilot attempted to counteract the yaw with left rudder input, then retarded the throttles.
Runway Departure and Impact
Subsequently, the airplane veered off the right side of the runway and collided with a snowbank. A witness observed the airplane as it left the runway and noted that the right propeller appeared to be revolving at a much slower rate than the left propeller.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane was conducted following the incident. No mechanical malfunctions or anomalies were identified during the inspection.