Accident Overview
A professional pilot (ATP) and a non-instrument rated owner/pilot were at the controls during a night takeoff from a private, unlighted airstrip. After departure, the aircraft entered a slight left turn and struck the top of a tall pine tree approximately 80 feet above ground level and 202 feet left of the runway centerline. It then continued for about 450 feet before crashing into additional trees.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found no preimpact mechanical problems with the aircraft. They were unable to determine which pilot was actually flying at the time of the accident. Toxicology tests revealed that the owner/pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.41‰ (41 mg/dL) and a urine alcohol level of 0.12‰ (12 mg/dL). The professional pilot's blood and urine tests were negative for alcohol. All five occupants died in the crash.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause is: Improper planning/decision by the pilot-in-command, and failure of the aircrew to maintain runway alignment and clearance from the high obstructions (trees) beside the runway. Related factors were: weather conditions, dark night, lack of runway edge lights, lack of visual perception by the pilot(s), and trees beside the runway.