What happened
Prior to departure, the pilot communicated with air traffic control to request a takeoff from the departure runway, intending to execute traffic pattern work and land on the adjacent left runway. During the initial climb toward the west, air traffic controllers issued two instructions for the pilot to enter the left traffic pattern; however, the pilot did not respond to these communications.
Radar tracking indicated that the aircraft type remained on the runway centerline for the duration of its departure. The aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet above ground level, with groundspeed initially increasing to 81 knots before dropping to 70 knots, at which point it disappeared from radar. Eyewitnesses observed the plane departing with a low climb rate and slow airspeed. Shortly after the aircraft moved out of sight, a column of smoke was visible on the horizon.
Findings
Investigation of the crash site revealed symmetrical propeller strikes on the ground, which indicated the aircraft type struck the surface in a shallow, wings-level, and nose-up attitude. An inspection of the airframe and both engines showed no signs of mechanical failure or malfunction that would have prevented the aircraft from achieving the necessary airspeed or climb rate. Both engines showed damage patterns suggesting they were producing symmetrical power at the time of impact.
While the pilot's medical history showed no significant conditions that would interfere with flight, it was noted that the pilot had previously experienced difficulty operating the aircraft's avionics. The pilot's most recent flight in this specific aircraft had occurred two months prior to the accident. The investigation determined that the aircraft was unable to maintain sufficient performance during the climb.