What happened
While performing the takeoff roll, a mechanical failure occurred involving the left engine of the aircraft. During this phase of flight, one or two propeller blades became detached from the engine assembly. The departing components struck the cockpit area and caused a puncture in the fuselage.
Following the impact, the pilot initiated emergency braking procedures to bring the aircraft to a halt. Upon coming to a stop, the aircraft was engulfed in flames. All nine occupants successfully evacuated the vessel before the fire could cause further casualties. The incident resulted in the partial destruction of the aircraft and left the captain with serious injuries.
Findings
- The structural integrity of the cockpit and fuselage was compromised by debris from the engine.
- The separation of propeller blades from the left engine was the primary driver of the emergency.