Accident Overview
On an unspecified date, a cargo aircraft departed from runway 35L. During the initial climb, at an altitude below 100 feet above ground level, the copilot, who was handling the flight controls, reduced power on the left propeller and the right engine. The pilot in command attempted to restore takeoff power while applying forward pressure on the control yoke, but lost control of the aircraft. The airplane impacted the terrain adjacent to the departure runway.
The aircraft was destroyed in the accident. Both pilots sustained serious injuries.
Pilot Statement
The pilot in command reported that during the takeoff, the copilot's actions reduced engine power. He further stated that the cargo may have shifted to the rear of the aircraft during the takeoff roll, potentially affecting the aircraft's center of gravity.
Findings
Official investigation findings identified the following issues:
Occurrence #1: Cargo Shift (Phase: Takeoff – Initial Climb)
- The pilot in command disregarded the security of the cargo, allowing it to shift during the takeoff roll.
- The procedure used by the pilot in command was inadequate.
- Aircraft weight and balance limits were exceeded.
Occurrence #2: Loss of Control – In Flight (Phase: Takeoff – Initial Climb)
- The copilot reduced throttle/power control.
- The copilot had a lack of total experience in the aircraft type.
- The copilot reduced the propeller control.
- The pilot in command did not maintain adequate airspeed.
- An inadvertent stall/mush occurred.
Occurrence #3: In-Flight Collision with Terrain (Phase: Descent – Uncontrolled)
- The terrain condition was grass.
The probable cause was determined to be the pilot in command's disregard for cargo security, resulting in a rearward shift of the center of gravity, a stall, and loss of control. Contributing factors included the crew's mismanagement of engine power and the copilot's lack of experience.