What happened
Following its departure from the Binghamton-Broome County Airport, a twin engine airplane experienced significant struggles maintaining altitude. During the initial climb, the aircraft entered a stall and struck an old approach light platform located at the base of the airport's runway extension. The impact caused the plane to burst into flames.
The accident resulted in three fatalities, including the pilot and two passengers, while eight other occupants sustained serious injuries during the crash.
Findings
Investigation into the accident determined that the primary cause was insufficient flight preparation by the crew, specifically the decision to proceed with takeoff despite snow accumulation on the aircraft. Several contributing environmental and operational factors were identified:
- The presence of airframe ice and icing conditions involving freezing rain and sleet
- Failure to clean the aircraft prior to departure
- Inadequate preflight procedures
- A delay in deciding to abort the takeoff sequence
- Low cloud ceilings and snowy weather conditions
- An intentional landing attempt with the landing gear retracted