What happened
During the initial climb phase after departing Bourke Airport, the aircraft's right engine ceased functioning. The crew attempted to feather the propeller to reduce drag; however, the propeller continued to windmill at 600 rpm, preventing the procedure from being completed successfully.
Facing significant aerodynamic drag, the captain initiated an emergency belly landing in a field situated approximately 2 km from the airfield. Upon contacting the ground, the aircraft traveled 125 meters before colliding with a tree. The impact caused the right wing to be severed from the fuselage. Following this collision, the wreckage slid an additional 55 meters before a fire broke out and consumed the plane.
Despite the destruction of the aircraft, all 13 occupants managed to evacuate safely, and there were zero injuries reported following the incident.
Findings
Investigations determined that the pilot did not utilize the proper techniques for managing asymmetric flight conditions after the starboard engine failed. This failure to manage the engine loss led to the decision to abandon the flight in the mistaken belief that maintaining altitude was impossible.