Accident Description
Witnesses reported that the aircraft's takeoff involved an unusually long ground roll and a slow rate of climb, accompanied by engine sounds that were described as abnormal. Shortly after departure, the airplane settled into a wooded area.
Engine Examination
Teardown of the left engine revealed water present in the fuel injector lines for cylinders #1, #3, and #5. The fuel injector nozzle for cylinder #3 was plugged. Intake valves were observed to be dark and sooty, and pistons #1, #3, and #5 had considerable amounts of dark carbon deposits. Similar issues were found in the right engine, which exhibited extensive carbon buildups throughout.
Maintenance and Allegations
The day before the accident, an engine test run had been performed by the director of maintenance. Additionally, individuals formerly employed by the operator provided written statements containing allegations regarding the general condition of company aircraft, falsification of maintenance records, and improper maintenance procedures being performed on the company's airplanes.
Probable Cause
According to the official findings, the probable cause of the accident was a loss of power on both engines during takeoff as a result of inadequate maintenance. Additionally, the pilot failed to abort the takeoff.