Accident Summary
On a hot afternoon, the pilot initiated a takeoff with seven passengers on board. Shortly after liftoff, two witnesses reported seeing a puff of black smoke from the right engine. The aircraft then turned to the left before crossing the departure end of the runway at low altitude and low speed. Subsequently, it rolled rapidly to the left and impacted the ground in a near flat attitude with a high rate of sink. The aircraft had sufficient forward velocity to slide or bounce about 70 feet before coming to rest and burning. All eight occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage, including teardowns of both engines, revealed no pre-impact mechanical malfunction or failure. The aircraft was estimated to be 80 pounds below its maximum design gross weight. Its center of gravity was computed to be 1.45 inches aft of its rear limit. The temperature at the time was 101°F, and the density altitude was approximately 4,000 feet.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause consists of three sequential occurrences. Occurrence #1: loss of engine power during initial climb, with the reason for occurrence undetermined. Occurrence #2: loss of control inflight during a turn to the landing area, due to the pilot not maintaining airspeed (VMC). Occurrence #3: inflight collision with terrain during uncontrolled descent, due to the pilot not maintaining aircraft handling.