What happened
During the takeoff phase from Belize City-Philip S. W. Goldson Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving the left engine. As the plane attempted to climb, the loss of power caused the aircraft to bank heavily to the left. This maneuver led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to descend into a densely forested region situated close to the airport perimeter.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. Among the occupants, one fatality was recorded involving a crew member, while the second pilot sustained injuries during the event.
Findings
Investigations into the crash revealed that the aircraft was operating at a weight exceeding its maximum takeoff weight by 500 pounds. This overloading of the aircraft was identified as a significant factor that likely contributed to the failure of the left engine during the critical climb period.