What happened
A cargo-carrying air taxi flight, transporting truck components, experienced a catastrophic loss of control during its initial climb. Shortly after departing, the pilot communicated with the tower to request a flight plan modification and responded affirmatively when asked if the aircraft was experiencing difficulties. Witnesses observed the aircraft type flying erratically at an extremely low altitude near the treeline before it entered a nearly vertical descent into a residential neighborhood.
The impact of the crash caused a fire that destroyed the rear of a residence, resulting in 2 fatalities among the occupants of the house. While no engine failure was detected during the post-accident investigation, investigators identified significant issues regarding the aircraft's weight and stability. Specifically, there were discrepancies between the actual load and the official manifest.
Findings
Investigation into the incident revealed that the net weight recorded on the cargo manifest failed to account for the 150 lbs weight of the trays used to hold the parts. Although a company employee observed the pilot securing the cargo with nets and ropes prior to departure, they did not intervene or assist in the process. Due to the severity of the impact damage, investigators could not determine if the cargo had shifted during flight.
Furthermore, the operator failed to provide necessary weight and balance documentation to company personnel before the flight departed. The investigation concluded that inadequate dispatch procedures and improper weight and balance calculations by the pilot in command contributed to the loss of control.