Incident Overview
The pilot of a twin-engine airplane reported that prior to takeoff, he completed a preflight inspection that included checking the engine oil quantity. Line personnel had topped off the oil reservoirs and reportedly secured the engine oil reservoir filler caps.
Approximately two minutes into the flight, the right engine oil pressure warning light illuminated. The pilot informed Palm Beach Approach Control of the problem, shut down the right engine, and returned to Lantana.
Approach and Go-Around
As the flight approached runway 03, the pilot heard a radio transmission from another airplane taxiing for takeoff. Continuing the approach with full flaps extended, the pilot elected to go around 1,500 feet from the approach end of the 3,000-foot runway. The airplane collided with the ground during the go-around maneuver to runway 15.
Post-Accident Examination
Wreckage examination disclosed that the right cowling showed oil streaming back from behind the engine and onto the wing strut. Inspection of the oil filler cap revealed that it had not been properly installed.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to secure the engine oil filler cap during the preflight inspection that resulted in the subsequent loss of engine power, and his in-flight decision to attempt a single-engine go-around with full wing flaps extended.