Accident Overview
The aircraft, a twin-engine model, was operating a charter flight from Teeside to Nantes. On board were two passengers, two pilots, and 250 kilograms of cargo, which included a container of Type A radioactive material weighing 37 kilograms.
Takeoff and Initial Climb
Takeoff acceleration was normal. The pilot allowed the aircraft to accelerate to 100 miles per hour, approximately 15 miles per hour above the minimum controllable single-engine speed, before lifting off. Very soon after lift-off, the pilot felt a loss of power from the left engine. Believing this to be only a partial failure, he decided to continue the takeoff and raised the landing gear.
Loss of Control
The pilot felt that the aircraft was still climbing and heard the pilot's assistant say, "I have the rudder." He then realized that the airspeed was reducing rapidly and that he was losing directional control. He lowered the nose and steered toward a grass area to the left of the runway.
Impact and Rescue
The aircraft struck the ground in a steep left bank. All four occupants were quickly rescued. Only the pilot was seriously injured. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a loss of power on the left engine during initial climb. A damaged gasket was found in the Lear-Romeo engine-driven fuel pump, capable of causing a large fuel leak and allowing air to enter the fuel system.