Accident Summary
An aircraft conducting an instrument-flight-rules takeoff impacted trees and crashed about half a mile from the runway. The accident occurred in conditions of calm winds, one-quarter-mile visibility in fog, and vertical visibility of 100 feet.
Flight Profile
Shortly after takeoff, the airplane made a slight left turn and descended into 25-foot-tall trees. Data from the enhanced ground proximity warning system showed that the aircraft initially achieved a positive climb profile with a slight left turn before entering a descent.
Witness Account
A witness reported hearing the crash and observed the right wing striking the ground and bursting into flames. The airplane then cartwheeled for several hundred feet before coming to rest inverted.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the airframe, engines, and propeller assemblies revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal flight. The official probable cause was determined to be the pilot's failure to maintain a positive climb rate during the instrument takeoff, with low visibility identified as a contributing factor.