Accident Overview
A cargo flight operating from Windsor Locks-Bradley Airport to Baltimore met with disaster shortly after a night takeoff. The twin-engine airplane stalled and crashed in flames, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and the death of the pilot, who was the sole occupant.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be an uncontrolled collision with the ground during initial climb, following an inadequate preflight preparation. Contributing factors identified by investigators included cargo that shifted after rotation, an improperly loaded aircraft, and tie-down snaps and rings found disconnected. Additionally, the aircraft was 682 pounds over its maximum gross weight at the time of the accident.
Circumstances
The flight had just departed Bradley Airport when the stall occurred. The precise sequence of events leading to the loss of control was not detailed, but the combination of overweight conditions and improper cargo restraint likely affected the aircraft's performance and handling characteristics.