Accident Summary
On a night takeoff from Salisbury Airport, the aircraft's engine lost power. The pilot subsequently lost control, and the airplane crashed near the runway. The accident resulted in one passenger fatality and injuries to four other occupants. The aircraft was destroyed.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft was taking off at night when one of its engines lost power. The pilot lost control of the aircraft, which then crashed in the vicinity of the runway.
Injuries and Damage
One passenger was killed, and four other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official probable cause of the accident was an engine malfunction for an undetermined reason. Contributing factors reported include failure to follow approved procedures, failure to obtain/maintain flying speed, inadequate preflight preparation, improper loading of the aircraft, failure to use fuel boost pumps during takeoff, and the aircraft being approximately 400 pounds over its maximum gross weight.