Accident Details
A training flight operated by a twin-engine airplane ended in a crash on Castle Rock Island shortly after a night takeoff from Crescent City-Jack McNamara Airport. The crew, consisting of one instructor and one student pilot, was conducting a training flight from Crescent City to Eureka. During the initial climb following departure, the aircraft exhibited a low rate of climb before impacting terrain.
Location and Sequence
The accident occurred on Castle Rock Island, located approximately one mile south of the departure end of the runway. The island has an elevation of 238 feet above sea level. The aircraft was destroyed in the subsequent fire, and both occupants were killed.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a controlled collision with ground during initial climb after the pilot-in-command misjudged altitude and clearance. A contributing factor reported was inadequate supervision of the flight on behalf of the check pilot.