Accident Overview
An instrument-rated private pilot and four passengers were aboard a multiengine airplane when it crashed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft had been towed from a hangar to the ramp at the pilot's request, as he wished to avoid obstacles while taxiing in dense fog.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported hearing the pre-takeoff engine run-up near the end of the runway, but could not see the airplane due to the fog. The engines sounded normal during the run-up and takeoff. A witness video captured the takeoff roll, but the airplane was obscured by the dense fog. During the roll, the airplane's tires emitted a chirping sound, consistent with a side load during touchdown on the runway. The video ended before the accident. Witnesses stated that the takeoff continued, followed by the sound of impact and an explosion.
Weather and Weight
At the time of the accident, visibility was less than 1/4 mile in fog, with an overcast ceiling at 300 feet above ground level. The airplane's weight exceeded the maximum takeoff weight by about 105 pounds and was outside the center of gravity moment envelope. The excess weight would have likely extended the takeoff roll, decreased the climb rate, and increased the elevator pressure needed to lift off.
Wreckage and Examination
A majority of the airplane was consumed by postcrash fire. Ground impact marks and wreckage distribution indicated that the airplane rolled left over the departure end of the runway and struck the ground inverted in a nearly vertical, nose-low attitude. Examination of both engines showed operating signatures consistent with takeoff power at impact. The elevator trim tab and actuator were found beyond their full up travel limits, and the trim cable exhibited tension overload separations near the actuator. It is likely that when the cable separated, the chain turned the sprocket and extended the actuator rod beyond full travel. No anomalies were observed in the airframe, engines, or cockpit instrumentation that would have precluded normal operation. The investigation was unable to determine the autopilot's status during the takeoff.
Probable Cause
Based on evidence, it is likely that when the airplane entered instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot experienced spatial disorientation, leading to a loss of control and descent into terrain.