What happened
During an ascent from Buffalo Airport, a twin engine airplane struggled to achieve and sustain a positive rate of climb. The flight was operating in conditions characterized by blowing snow and low visibility. During this initial climb phase, the aircraft struck the ground, leading to a crash. There were four fatalities among the occupants of the plane.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several environmental and operational factors that contributed to the impact. The aircraft was operating at an airport elevation of 4,951 feet, and the combination of high density altitude and low ceilings played a role in the flight's inability to climb effectively. Weather conditions were poor, with visibility measured at one mile or less amidst blowing snow.
Technical observations noted that the engine mixtures were set to full rich. The primary reason for the controlled collision with the ground was determined to be inadequate preflight preparation by the pilot.