What happened
During the departure phase from Park Falls Municipal Airport, a twin engine airplane experienced significant difficulty maintaining altitude. As the aircraft attempted to climb, it collided with overhead power cables and utility poles. Following this impact, the aircraft entered a stall and descended into an adjacent field, where the resulting impact caused the airframe to burst into flames.
All five occupants on board sustained serious injuries during the accident. The aircraft was completely destroyed in the crash.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements related to the flight's performance and environment. The pilot reported that the engines were not generating their full rated thrust during the climb. Additionally, the presence of high obstructions near the departure path played a role in the collision with the power lines.
Official findings concluded that a powerplant failure occurred for reasons that remain undetermined. Data regarding the aircraft's weight at the time of the incident showed it was operating at 6,238 lbs, which was just below its maximum gross weight of 6,300 lbs. The investigation also noted that the pilot did not attempt to abort the takeoff sequence once the difficulties were encountered.