What happened
Shortly after departing from the airport, the pilot of the twin-engine airplane observed that the front baggage door on the left side of the aircraft had opened. In response to this mechanical issue, the pilot initiated an attempt to return to the airfield. While the aircraft was performing the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, the left engine suffered a loss of power.
During the subsequent flight, the aircraft struck power lines and the ground. The impact triggered an explosion and a significant fire that resulted in the near-total destruction of the airframe. There were no survivors reported from the incident.
Findings
An investigation into the wreckage and components provided the following details:
- A teardown of the right engine showed no mechanical irregularities.
- A functional test of the left engine showed no anomalies.
- Due to the extensive damage caused by the impact and the ensuing fire, investigators were unable to perform a complete examination or testing of the left engine's fuel system.
Ultimately, the reason for the left engine's loss of power remained undetermined.