Incident Overview
A cargo aircraft experienced a series of engine failures during takeoff attempts after being mistakenly fueled with Jet-A fuel instead of the required 100LL Avgas. The incident occurred following a refueling stop where the pilot-in-command had ordered filling of the two main tanks for a return flight to Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Sequence of Events
Upon landing, the pilot-in-command placed a refueling order to fill the aircraft's two 210-gallon main tanks. After cargo unloading and refueling, the aircrew aborted the first two takeoff attempts due to slow aircraft performance. Engine run-ups performed after each abort reportedly indicated normal engine operation.
Following the second aborted takeoff, the aircrew contacted the fixed-base operator (FBO) and requested to know what type of fuel had been added. The response was "100LL Avgas." On the third takeoff attempt, the aircraft became airborne, but both engines lost power as the landing gear was retracted.
Emergency Landing and Collision
The aircrew selected a highway for an emergency landing. During the landing, the left wing struck a utility pole, then the aircraft went through a fence and struck a highway embankment.
Investigation Findings
Investigation revealed that Jet-A fuel had been added to the aircraft instead of 100LL Avgas. The truck containing Jet-A fuel looked similar to the one with 100LL Avgas, but was properly designated with fuel grade markings.
Injuries
One pilot was killed; the second pilot sustained serious injuries.