What happened
During a scheduled night cargo operation, a twin-engine airplane departed the runway and reached a maximum ground speed of 97 knots. Following the initial takeoff, the aircraft entered a steep climb, after which it leveled off and subsequently pitched downward. The aircraft eventually struck a taxiway located parallel to the runway. At the time of the impact, the landing gear had already been retracted. Physical evidence at the scene, including marks on the taxiway and signatures on the propeller blades, confirmed that both engines were still functioning at the moment of collision.
Findings
An investigation into the wreckage found no indications of mechanical malfunctions or airframe failures prior to the crash. The aircraft's cargo was found in its original position, confirming the plane was within the proper weight and balance limits, and no cargo shift occurred during the flight. Furthermore, the elevator trim jackscrew was found in a neutral position.
While the aircraft's performance capabilities under the existing environmental conditions suggested a climb rate of 1,800 feet per minute, radar data indicated the aircraft briefly achieved a climb rate exceeding 3,000 feet per minute. Based on the observed flight profile, the aerodynamic stall is the primary factor that caused the aircraft to lose altitude and descend into the taxiway.