What happened
Following the recent purchase of an Aero Commander 500S, two experienced pilots were tasked with transporting the aircraft from Portland, Oregon, to Bern, Switzerland. During the delivery process, the aircraft stopped at Rankin Inlet for refueling using two 45-gallon drums before its scheduled leg to Iqaluit, Nunavut. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was operating at its maximum takeoff weight of 7,000 pounds.
During the initial takeoff attempt, the crew noticed that the engines were not reaching full power and subsequently decided to abort the takeoff. After returning to the ramp, the crew performed a second engine run-up, which showed normal indications. However, during the second takeoff attempt, the aircraft experienced a significant rise in cylinder head temperatures. Both Lycoming TIO-540-E1B5 engines suffered a loss of power shortly after rotation. The crew attempted to return to the runway but could not maintain sufficient altitude. The pilots extended the landing gear and executed a forced landing on a flat area located roughly 1,500 feet southwest of the runway 13 threshold. The accident resulted in no injuries, though the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating at its maximum allowable takeoff weight.
- Both engines experienced power loss following an increase in cylinder head temperatures during the second takeoff attempt.