What happened
During the initial climb phase, approximately 800 feet above ground level, the aircraft experienced a significant rise in left engine oil temperature accompanied by a drop in oil pressure. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot feathered the left engine and declared an emergency.
As the flight progressed toward a final approach, the crew encountered difficulties with the landing gear, as a safe gear indication could not be confirmed. An attempt was made to execute a go-around; however, the aircraft was unable to maintain sufficient airspeed for such a maneuver and was committed to a landing. During the maneuvering process, the aircraft type crashed into a desert environment. The flight was carrying 2,700 lbs of cargo at an elevation of 3,950 feet in 72-degree Fahrenheit weather. Despite the impact, there were zero fatalities and all three occupants remained uninjured.
Findings
Investigations into the incident identified several contributing factors related to the mechanical and environmental conditions:
- The primary engine issue was attributed to a failure in the lubricating system resulting in loss of pressure.
- High density altitude contributed to the difficulty of maintaining control during the emergency maneuver.
- The landing gear extension and indication system status remained undetermined.
- The terrain at the crash site consisted of rough, uneven ground covered in loose gravel, sand, and high vegetation.