Event Description
Shortly after becoming airborne, the pilot noticed a substantial change in propeller pitch noise accompanied by a loss of performance. Insufficient runway remained for a straight-ahead landing. The pilot raised the landing gear and flaps, but the aircraft did not climb and airspeed decayed below the safe single-engine speed. The takeoff attempt was abandoned, and a forced landing was conducted off the end of the runway.
Accident Details
The rear fuselage impacted heavily on a dirt bank 78 meters beyond the runway threshold. The aircraft then passed through a fence and slid for an additional 78 meters before coming to rest. All nine occupants exited the aircraft uninjured.
Official Findings
No fault was found with the engines or systems that could explain the reported loss of performance. Calculations indicated the aircraft's takeoff weight was close to the maximum allowable, and its center of gravity was aft of the rear limit. Several passengers noted that the aircraft rotated sharply to an unusually high nose attitude as it became airborne. The pilot's decision to raise the flaps upon perceiving the power loss was contrary to the emergency procedures for the aircraft type, which likely resulted in a sink and further reduction in airspeed.