What happened
During the climb phase following departure from Charlotte Amalie, the left engine of the aircraft ceased functioning. In response to the loss of power, the pilot initiated a descent to lower altitude. The flight ended in a ditching maneuver where the aircraft struck rocks before coming to a stop near the shoreline.
Despite the impact with the terrain, all 11 occupants were successfully evacuated from the wreckage without injury. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several mechanical and procedural issues. The primary cause was determined to be an engine failure leading to an uncontrolled impact with the water, stemming from insufficient maintenance and inspection protocols.
Specific technical failures included:
- A failure of the retaining bolt on the carburetor airbox valve linkage, which transitioned hot air to cold air, resulting in air starvation.
- Issues related to the fuel system's ram air assembly.
- Material fatigue or failure within the engine components.
- Inadequate design elements contributing to the malfunction.
Furthermore, the investigation noted that established procedures were not followed correctly and that emergency responses were handled improperly.