Accident Sequence
The pilot, an airline transport pilot with 6,000 hours of flight experience, was observed making a steep climb followed by a shallow left turn during the initial climb after takeoff. The bank angle increased progressively, then the nose of the airplane dropped. Subsequently, the airplane entered a spin and impacted a tree before hitting the ground.
Fuel Selector Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident found that the fuel selector handles were set to the auxiliary fuel tanks. According to the Normal Procedures section of the airplane's Pilot Operating Handbook (POH), the fuel selectors must be set to the main tanks for takeoff.
Airworthiness Directive
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued Airworthiness Directive (AD) 68-26-06 in 1974 to prevent a power loss. This AD required that a placard be installed on the pilot's instrument panel with the text: "TAKE OFF AND LAND ON MAIN TANKS ONLY. TURNING TYPE TAKE OFFS OR TAKE OFFS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING FAST TAXI TURNS PROHIBITED."
Performance Information
The POH states that the best rate of climb speed with one engine inoperative (Vyse) is 100 knots, and the minimum controllable airspeed (Vmc) is 78 knots. The POH also notes: "Two major factors govern one engine operations; airspeed and directional control. The airplane can be safely maneuvered or trimmed for normal hands-off operation and sustained in this configuration by the operative engine AS LONG AS SUFFICIENT AIRSPEED IS MAINTAINED... The most important aspect of engine failure is the necessity to maintain lateral and directional control. If airspeed is below 78 knots, reduce power on the operative engine as required to maintain control."