What happened
While performing a takeoff roll at La Verne-Brackett Field Airport, the pilot-in-command identified a mechanical issue and elected to terminate the takeoff attempt. Despite applying emergency braking techniques, the twin engine airplane could not stop before the end of the runway. The aircraft subsequently overran the paved surface, causing the landing gear to collapse. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.
This accident resulted in two fatalities and left five others injured among the occupants of the plane.
Findings
Investigations into the incident identified several contributing factors related to operational procedures and aircraft configuration. A primary factor was inadequate preflight preparation by the flight crew. Specific issues noted during the investigation included:
- Failure to utilize the required pre-takeoff checklist
- The presence of engaged gust locks
- A bolt securing the control column
- Delayed execution of the aborted takeoff procedure
- Improperly installed passenger seats
- Mechanical failure involving the undercarriage
- Overload conditions and specific airport environmental factors