What happened
On 30 August 2004, a Cessna Aircraft Company 421C Golden Eagle, registered HB-LRW, departed from runway 32 at the El Questro Aircraft Landing Area. The aircraft was being operated by its owner-pilot as part of a delivery flight from Switzerland to Perth, with a planned stop in Broome.
Prior to departure, the pilot performed a pre-flight inspection that included a fuel drain check under the left wing and the removal of debris from the right main wheel. After loading a small amount of luggage and boarding with one passenger, the pilot experienced difficulty starting the left engine. After an initial unsuccessful attempt, the right engine was started first, followed by the successful start of the left engine. During the subsequent engine run-up checks, witnesses noted a frequency vibration while the pilot manipulated the engine controls.
As the aircraft began its takeoff roll, witnesses reported that the engines sounded normal and the aircraft accelerated quickly. Shortly after lifting off from the runway, the aircraft banked to the left at an angle of approximately 10 to 15 degrees. The aircraft drifted leftward, striking trees located beside the runway before hitting the ground. The impact and a subsequent fire destroyed the aircraft. There were two fatalities involving the pilot and the sole passenger.
Findings
Witnesses at the airfield observed the aircraft's takeoff roll and noted that the engine sounds remained normal throughout the initial phase of the departure. No smoke, vapor, or falling debris was observed from the aircraft prior to the collision with the trees.