What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Catalina Island Airport, a twin engine airplane experienced a loss of control. The aircraft descended into a mountainous area located in the vicinity of the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe and caused two fatalities among the crew members on board.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified that the crew suffered from incapacitation, leading to an uncontrolled collision with the terrain. Several contributing factors were documented during the inquiry:
- The pilot and co-pilot exhibited significant levels of carbon monoxide poisoning, with measurements recorded at 45% and 16.8% respectively.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning was linked to cracks found within the cabin heater's combustion chamber.
- A failure occurred within the aircraft's air conditioning, heating, and pressurization systems.
- Environmental conditions included the presence of fog at the time of the accident.
- Evidence of a fatigue fracture was identified.
- The crew members were experiencing physical impairment during the flight.