Accident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the airplane's right engine suffered a complete loss of power. The airplane began to slow and climbed to an altitude of approximately 91 feet above ground level. It then entered an uncontrolled descent, consistent with the onset of a velocity minimum control (VMC) roll to the right.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed no evidence of preimpact failures or malfunctions in either engine or airframe. The landing gear had been retracted and the right engine propeller feathered. Inspection of the cockpit found the right engine fuel selector positioned between the "60 GAL RIGHT AUX" detent and the "RIGHT ENG OFF" detent. Fuel system examination indicated the selector was in that position prior to impact. Placards near the selectors warned: "WARNING POSITION SELECTORS IN DETENTS ONLY. NO FUEL FLOW TO ENGINES BETWEEN DETENTS."
Weight and Balance
The pilot had loaded the majority of the cargo and performed weight and balance calculations. Examination of the fuselage showed all six cargo bins were full. The farthest aft bin contained 265 pounds of cargo, despite being placarded for a maximum of 75 pounds. All other bins were loaded considerably below their weight limits. Weight and balance calculations revealed that the pilot's load manifest was erroneous, and the actual center of gravity of the airplane was rear of the aft CG limit. This aft-of-limit CG would have created instability in handling characteristics, especially after a loss of engine power, and increased the airspeed needed to prevent a VMC roll. Performance calculations indicated that with the right engine inoperative immediately after takeoff, the airplane would most likely not have been able to continue the departure on one engine.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's failure to place the fuel selector for the right engine in the proper position. Contributing to the accident was the improper loading of the cargo.