Overview
On January 28, 1987, an aircraft at near gross weight (center of gravity unknown) was on initial climb after takeoff. A witness reported that the engines sounded normal. At about 400 feet above ground level, the aircraft pitched up approximately 10°, then leveled off and entered a left turn. The aircraft made another left turn to the south-southwest. The pilot reported that he was returning to the field, but did not state the nature of the problem.
Sequence of Events
The witness stated that the aircraft was in a 30° left bank, turning toward the airport, when the aircraft stalled and descended to the ground in a vertical nose-down attitude. A fire and explosion occurred after impact. The left propeller was found in the feathered position. No engine problem was found during post-accident examination.
Previous Incidents
On the same date, the left engine had lost power after takeoff; however, no problem was found and the condition could not be duplicated. The pilot had experienced two previous engine-out events in the same airplane, both at low weight. The surrounding terrain was suitable for an off-airport landing.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings were: Occurrence #1: loss of engine power, reason for occurrence undetermined. Occurrence #2: loss of control during maneuvering turn to landing area, attributed to propeller feathering performed by the pilot, improper in-flight planning/decision, improper emergency procedure, and failure to maintain airspeed (Vmc). Additionally, a wheels-up landing was not performed. Occurrence #3: in-flight collision with terrain during uncontrolled descent.