Event Overview
The accident involved an aircraft that experienced a takeoff abort followed by a fatal crash on a subsequent takeoff attempt. The airplane was destroyed and all three crew members were killed.
First Takeoff Abort
During the initial takeoff procedure, the propeller on engine number two autofeathered, prompting the crew to abandon the takeoff.
Second Takeoff and Crash
The crew initiated a second takeoff. While in the initial climb phase, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed in flames near the runway. All three occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be an uncontrolled descent during initial climb due to unwanted thrust reversal on engine number two.
Contributing Factors
Several contributing factors were identified:
- The pilot-in-command exercised poor judgment.
- Attempted operation with known deficiencies in equipment.
- Failed to follow approved procedures.
- Unwanted thrust reversal occurred.
- Oil exhaustion in the propeller system.
- Propeller system feathering pump leakage.
- Inadequate maintenance and inspection.
- Deficiency in company-maintained equipment, services, and regulation.
- Pilot fatigue.
- Improper oil replacement.
- Bad pump output O-rings.