Accident Summary
Shortly after takeoff from Gulfport-Biloxi Airport, while in initial climb, the right engine failed. The copilot informed air traffic control about the situation and was cleared to return for an emergency landing. Shortly thereafter, the airplane stalled and crashed in Long Beach, southeast of the airport. A pilot and a passenger were killed, and 10 other occupants were injured. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a failure of the right engine due to the failure of the number 3 piston ring, caused by oil starvation. This was the result of inadequate maintenance and inspection. Contributing factors included failure to obtain or maintain flying speed, improper in-flight decisions or planning, improper operation of the powerplant, poor crew coordination, improper emergency procedures, and the right propeller not being feathered.