Incident Details
Approximately half a mile from the airport after takeoff, the pilot observed that the left front baggage door was partly open. The pilot initiated a left turn to return to the airstrip. Following the turn, the baggage door opened completely. Immediately after, the left wing dropped and the aircraft stalled. The pilot applied full power and lowered the nose. When the nose was raised near the ground, the aircraft shuddered and then crashed.
Investigation Findings
Two rescue personnel, both of whom were certified pilots, arrived at the scene shortly after the accident. They examined the nose baggage door and found it in the unlocked position with the bayonet pins retracted. A representative from Piper noted that if the left side nose baggage door of a PA-31 opened during flight, there would be a likelihood of interruption to the smooth airflow through the propeller, possibly reducing the thrust produced by the blades.
Official Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be a loss of control in flight while maneuvering to the landing area after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed. The following findings were reported: cargo door unlocked, inadequate preflight preparation, aircraft performance deteriorated, and inadvertent stall by the pilot.