Accident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the left engine of a twin-engine aircraft began to progressively lose power and was shut down. The crew notified Beech Tower and requested to return for landing. The aircraft was observed on final approach to runway 18 with landing gear extended and the left propeller stopped.
Sequence of Events
During the landing approach, the aircraft began veering to the left. It crossed over the end of the airport at approximately 40 feet above ground level and about 300 feet left (east) of the runway centerline. The left wing and nose dropped, and the aircraft impacted the ramp left wing first. It then skidded across the ramp on a heading of 160 degrees, colliding with three other aircraft: a Beechcraft F33A (registration N1833S), a Beechcraft 60 Duke (N6747D), and a Beechcraft 58 (N5800B).
Investigation Findings
Examination revealed that the #2 exhaust valve lifter had become flat and the #2 exhaust valve had failed from fatigue. The official probable cause attributes the engine power loss to a mechanical failure due to fatigue of the exhaust valve. Additionally, the pilot did not maintain adequate airspeed (VMC) during the landing, leading to loss of control.
Damage and Injuries
The accident aircraft sustained substantial damage from the impact and subsequent skid. The three parked aircraft were also damaged. Both pilots escaped without injury.