Accident Overview
The pilot departed from an intersection located 2,100 feet from the approach end of a 6,700-foot-long runway. Immediately after takeoff, the right engine failed. The pilot reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge that he feathered the right propeller and initiated a wide right turn away from terrain in an attempt to return to the airport. He stated that the airspeed did not reach 90 knots and that both airspeed and altitude slowly decayed, leading to a ditching into smooth water.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The airplane departed with full fuel tanks, and the takeoff weight was estimated at 6,606 pounds. After recovery, the cowl flaps were found in the 50% open position. No anomalies were discovered with the fuel system. The best single-engine rate of climb airspeed for this aircraft is 106 knots, based on cowl flaps closed and a five-degree bank into the operating engine.
Engine Examination
The right engine was disassembled and examined; no mechanical anomalies were noted. The source of the power loss could not be determined.
Probable Cause
The NTSB determined the probable cause of the accident to be a total loss of power in the right engine for undetermined reasons.