What happened
While cruising at 23,000 feet in visual meteorological conditions, the pilot of a multiengine airplane notified air traffic control of a loss of engine power and a subsequent loss of altitude. Following instructions from a controller, the pilot was directed toward a nearby airport. During the descent, the aircraft's altitude dropped to approximately 3,200 feet above ground level. As the aircraft approached the airport, radar indicated it was flying at roughly 400 feet above ground level on short final for runway 14. The aircraft then passed over the airport and began a left turn to establish a downwind leg for runway 21.
Witnesses at the scene observed that the propellers were rotating, though the engine power level could not be determined. As the aircraft reached the approach end of runway 21, it executed a steep left turn at a low airspeed. During this maneuver, the left wing stalled, causing the aircraft to pitch nose-down and impact the ground. The accident resulted in no survivors.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the engines and propellers showed no mechanical failures that would have prevented normal operation. While both propeller assemblies showed damage consistent with low or idle power, the engines were found to be mechanically sound. Data from the onboard engine monitor showed a temporary fluctuation in exhaust gas temperature (EGT) and cylinder head temperature (CHT) for both engines approximately 14 minutes before the crash, but these values returned to normal levels five minutes before impact. Because the engine monitor did not track fuel pressure or flow, and no mechanical anomalies were found in the fuel system, the cause of the initial reported power loss remains undetermined.
Investigators concluded that the pilot likely attempted to lose altitude by circling the airport because the initial approach was too high. During this maneuver, the pilot exceeded the critical angle of attack during a steep turn, leading to an aerodynamic stall at an altitude that left no margin for recovery.