Incident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft experienced a left engine power loss shortly after takeoff from Detroit-Wayne County Airport. During the initial climb, the pilot reported the failure and decided to return for an emergency landing. However, realizing that the runway was out of reach, he chose to set down in an open field instead.
Emergency Landing and Fire
The aircraft executed a belly landing, sliding for several dozen yards before coming to rest. Upon stopping, the airplane burst into flames. Both occupants were able to evacuate the cabin and were uninjured. The aircraft was destroyed by the fire.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation found the probable cause to be engine failure and subsequent wheels-up landing due to inadequate maintenance and inspection by maintenance personnel. Several contributing factors were identified: powerplant exhaust system manifolds, material failure, foreign object damage, propeller and accessories governors, improperly secured components, failure of both engines, wet and soft ground, high obstructions, forced landing off airport on land, metal from a previous welded slab patch in the left engine exhaust manifold that jammed the turbo, and a loose right propeller governor arm.