What happened
Following takeoff from runway 23, the pilot observed oil leaking from the left engine. In an attempt to return to the airfield, the pilot began a turn toward runway 05; however, the aircraft failed to align with the runway centerline. During a subsequent go-around attempt, the application of full power resulted in the left engine's oil pressure dropping to zero psi.
In response to the loss of pressure, the pilot feathered the left engine and attempted to continue the go-around using only one engine. The aircraft remained in a configuration with the landing gear and flaps extended. During the emergency descent, the aircraft struck trees and crashed into the terrain approximately 2 miles northeast of the airport. A post-crash fire broke out, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. The pilot, who was the only person on board, managed to escape the wreckage with minor injuries.
Findings
Investigations into the incident identified several contributing factors related to the sequence of events:
- An oil leak originated from the left engine during the initial climb phase.
- The aircraft experienced a partial loss of engine power due to mechanical malfunction.
- The crash involved an in-flight collision with trees and subsequent impact with the ground.
- Due to the intensity of the post-crash fire, the specific origin of the oil leak could not be identified.