Background
On a previous flight, the right engine exhibited low power, with fuel flow 5 to 8 gallons per hour less than the left engine and turbine temperature about 500° lower. A decision was made to ferry the aircraft to a maintenance facility for examination of the right engine.
Flight
For the accident flight, the pilot used runway 02C, which measures 5,186 feet in length, despite the availability of longer runways (7,702 feet, 8,000 feet, and 8,500 feet). Conditions included a light tailwind and a temperature of 95°F. A witness observed the aircraft lift off at the end of the runway; charts indicate a normal takeoff roll with full power would have been about 3,100 feet. Witnesses reported that the aircraft remained low, nearly striking a 55-foot light standard, before rolling to the right and descending rapidly.
Impact
Impact occurred in a right-wing-low attitude approximately 2 miles from the departure end of runway 02C. The aircraft sustained extensive damage from impact and post-crash fire. No pre-impact part failure was found. Both engines showed evidence of rotation at impact.
Personnel
The operator's lead mechanic had reported for duty about three hours before the accident but was not informed of the engine problem prior to takeoff. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause includes: the company/operator management's decision to operate the aircraft with a known deficiency without further maintenance, the pilot's improper planning/decision, and the pilot's failure to abort the takeoff while sufficient runway remained. Contributing factors were lack of power in the right engine and unfavorable meteorological conditions.