Accident Details
At Hillsboro-Highland County Airport, the pilot of a twin-engine airplane initiated the takeoff procedure. While rotating, the pilot decided to abandon the takeoff and performed an emergency braking maneuver. The aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining runway distance, overran the runway, and collided with trees. The aircraft came to rest in flames and was destroyed. The pilot sustained injuries.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified an engine malfunction during the takeoff run as the cause, attributed to inadequate maintenance and inspection. Several contributing factors were reported: the presence of trees, failure of the ignition system (magnetos), improper alignment, delayed action in aborting the takeoff, improper operation of flight controls, rough terrain, high obstructions, and the aircraft becoming airborne during the abort procedure.
Probable Cause
The probable cause was determined to be an engine malfunction during the takeoff run due to inadequate maintenance and inspection. Contributing factors included trees, failure of the ignition system (magnetos), improper alignment, delayed action in aborting takeoff, improper operation of flight controls, rough terrain, high obstructions, and becoming airborne during abort.