Accident Overview
The flight was an air taxi cargo operation transporting truck parts. After takeoff, the tower inquired if the pilot was experiencing difficulty; the pilot responded "roger" and requested a change to the flight plan. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying erratically just above treetops before descending almost vertically into a residential area. The impact ignited the rear of one home, resulting in the fatal burning of two occupants.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination found no engine malfunction. However, discrepancies were noted in the load manifest and aircraft weight and balance. Prior to departure, a company employee observed the pilot securing the cargo with ropes, nets, and clips but did not assist, stating he "didn't know what the pilot was doing." Impact damage precluded determination of the original placement and security of the cargo and whether it shifted before the accident.
The cargo manifest's net weight omitted the weight of the trays holding the parts, a discrepancy of 150 pounds. Company personnel reported that no weight and balance information was left with them when the aircraft departed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings identified loss of control during initial climb due to inadequate dispatch procedures, improper aircraft weight and balance calculations, inadequate climb performance, and failure to maintain aircraft control by the pilot in command. Additionally, poor supervision by company/operator management was cited.