Accident Description
Shortly after takeoff from Winnipeg Airport runway 13, a twin-engine airplane climbing to about 150 feet banked right, stalled, and crashed onto two houses at 426 and 430 Linwood Street, approximately one kilometer south of the runway end. The aircraft burst into flames and was totally destroyed. All nine occupants, including seven students returning home, were killed. Despite both houses being destroyed, no one on the ground was wounded.
Eyewitnesses reported that both engines were not running properly prior to the loss of control.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the following findings:
- The left engine lost power for an undetermined reason.
- The pilot did not follow the recommended emergency procedures after the power loss.
- The right engine lost power because the pilot turned the right fuel selector valve to the 'off' position.
- The company had not ensured that the pilot was adequately trained in emergency procedures.
Probable Cause
The assigned probable cause is that the pilot did not follow the correct emergency procedure following a loss of power from one engine after takeoff.