What happened
During the initial climb following takeoff from Shelter Cove Airport, the aircraft experienced significant issues maintaining altitude. As the plane struggled to gain height, its landing gear made contact with an electrical transformer. This impact was followed by the left engine striking the roof of a nearby sewage disposal facility.
Following these collisions, the aircraft entered a left bank and descended into the ocean, approximately 150 yards from the shoreline. The accident resulted in 17 fatalities (comprising both pilots and 15 passengers) and left seven other individuals with serious injuries. The impact caused the total destruction of the airframe.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the accident was inadequate preflight preparation by the flight crew. Specifically, the crew neglected to disengage the control locks on both the rudder and the elevator before beginning the takeoff sequence.