Accident Overview
A twin-engine airplane stalled and crashed shortly after takeoff from Prescott-Ernest A. Love Airport. The accident occurred during the initial climb phase. All 10 occupants sustained injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the probable cause of the accident was a stall during initial climb resulting from inadequate maintenance and inspection. Several contributing factors were identified.
Contributing Factors
The following contributing factors were reported:
- Flight control surfaces: The elevator assembly and its attachments were improperly secured.
- Inadequate preflight preparation.
- The aircraft was improperly loaded, being 658 pounds over its maximum weight limit.
- The center of gravity was 1.28 inches behind the aft limit.
- The aircraft nosed up, and the pilot was unable to lower the nose using elevator down input.
Probable Cause
Stall during initial climb due to inadequate maintenance and inspection.