What happened
Shortly after departing from runway 22, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 2,06 feet south of the runway's departure end. The impact occurred at a steep nose-down angle of roughly 80 degrees, with the wreckage path following a 208-degree heading. The distance between the primary impact point and the tail section was measured at about 142 feet. Following the initial collision, a post-impact fire destroyed both the cockpit and the cabin areas.
Witnesses observed the aircraft performing normally during the taxi and takeoff phases. However, after passing a powerline situated about 1,800 feet from the runway end, the aircraft entered a sharp left bank. This maneuver was followed by a sudden drop in the nose, leading directly to the ground impact.
Findings
Investigations into the mechanical state of the aircraft showed that the engines and propellers were functional, with no evidence of pre-existing failures. Evidence indicated that the engines were rotating at the time of impact, and the propeller marks were consistent with normal operating ranges. Furthermore, control continuity was confirmed for the rudder, elevator, and right aileron.
However, significant discrepancies were noted regarding the aircraft's maintenance history. While an airframe and powerplant mechanic claimed to have performed an inspection on June 30, 1999, the official maintenance logs showed no annual inspections had been documented since August 1997. Additionally, the records failed to show compliance with five mandatory airworthiness directives applicable to the aircraft.