Accident Summary
An aircraft on takeoff used most of the runway, reached an altitude of approximately 60 feet, then pulled up to clear an embankment. During the initial climb, the aircraft struck a tall palm tree and subsequently crashed between two roads near an intersection where the roads merged.
Investigation Findings
After the accident, the cargo was removed from the aircraft and weighed. Computations showed that the maximum allowable gross weight of the aircraft was exceeded by approximately 1,928 lbs. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was evident. The passenger sustained injuries and the pilot was killed.
Probable Cause (Official Findings)
Occurrence #1: In-flight collision with object during takeoff initial climb. Findings: (1) Inadequate preflight planning/preparation by the pilot-in-command; (2) Aircraft weight and balance exceeded by the pilot-in-command; (3) The object was tree(s); (4) Clearance was not attained.
Occurrence #2: In-flight collision with terrain/water during uncontrolled descent.