Incident Overview
The airplane was refueled before departing on the accident flight, but the pilot did not supervise the fueling. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot advised the departure controller that both engines were experiencing a power loss and that he suspected jet fuel contamination. During the ensuing forced landing, the airplane collided with a berm.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the fixed-base operator (FBO) had fueled the airplane with 131.3 gallons of Jet A fuel. No witnesses were located who saw the pilot preflight the airplane. The pilot sustained severe head injuries and could not recall if he had preflighted the airplane. The right front seat passenger was not present when the pilot boarded the aircraft.
Probable Cause Determinations
The official findings list the following for Occurrence #1 (loss of engine power - partial, nonmechanical):
- All engines experienced loss of power due to incorrect fuel grade.
- Improper refueling by FBO personnel.
- Inadequate initial training of FBO personnel.
- Improper preflight planning/preparation by the pilot in command.
Occurrence #2 (forced landing) and Occurrence #3 (on ground/water collision with object) were also noted, with the terrain condition of a berm cited.