What happened
Prior to the accident, the pilot had acquired the Beechcraft Model 18 roughly one year earlier with plans to restore the aircraft to airworthy condition. The plane had been grounded for about five years and had previously served as a source for spare parts. On the day of the event, the pilot was operating the aircraft to reach another airport to collect passengers. After receiving clearance to take off and circle the airport at 2,500 feet, the aircraft departed the runway.
Observers noted that the aircraft exhibited a wobbling motion at a low airspeed while maintaining a nose-high attitude, failing to climb above 500 feet. While some witnesses reported the engines sounded normal, others noted sputtering, loud noises, or popping sounds. One individual observed white smoke emanating from the left engine. The aircraft performed three left turns, appearing to attempt a return to the airfield. During this maneuver, the left wing rose before the aircraft banked sharply to the left and the nose descended vertically. The aircraft struck the ground northeast of the airport, leading to a post-impact fire.
Findings
Investigation of the wreckage revealed that the left fuel valve was set to the OFF position, while the right fuel valve was directed to the rear auxiliary tank. The left engine showed significant damage from both the impact and fire, and the right engine sustained heavy impact damage. Evidence of grass and nesting material was discovered inside the left wing.
Although the aircraft had undergone approximately 20 engine test runs and high-speed taxi tests since its last fueling one month prior, the pilot lacked previous experience flying the Beechcraft Model 18. Additionally, while a Special Flight Permit had been obtained, it lacked the required signature from the mechanic, who was unaware of the pilot's flight plans for that day.