What happened
During preparations for a cross-country flight amidst a snowstorm, an aircraft was moved from its hangar to the ramp by FBO staff. During the subsequent takeoff roll, the torque link became disconnected, resulting in a total loss of nose wheel steering capabilities.
In response to the steering failure, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff. During this maneuver, the aircraft veered off the side of the runway. The impact caused the nose wheel to be sheared from the assembly. The resulting excursion caused extensive damage to the engines, wings, fuselage, and landing gear of the aircraft.
Findings
- The incident was triggered by a torque link that was not properly reconnected following the aircraft being towed out of the hangar.
- All four occupants of the aircraft were able to exit the wreckage without any injuries.