Primary finding
Probable cause
A loss of engine power after takeoff for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident was the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Witnesses stated they observed the airplane on the takeoff roll lift off at least three times. The airplane then lifted off, and another pilot-rated witness observed the airplane in an extremely nose-high attitude with the engine sounding like it was at a high power setting. The airplane then crashed into trees at the end of the runway. The engine and flight controls were examined and no preaccident malfunctions were found. The cargo could not be weighed due to postcrash consumption. The surviving pilot-rated passenger stated that the engine lost power after liftoff.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 26, 1995 about 0925 eastern daylight time, N3431W, operated by the pilot, and registered to SPSN Corporation, crashed on takeoff attempt in Brooksville, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was destroyed and the pilot received fatal injuries. One passenger received serious injuries and three received minor injuries. The flight was originating at the time. Witnesses stated they observed the airplane on takeoff roll, lift off at least three times. The airplane then lifted off and another pilot-rated witness observed the airplane in an extremely nose-high attitude with the engine sounding like it was at a high power setting.The airplane then struck trees and crashed. There was a postcrash fire. Examination of the wreckage and engine by FAA inspectors revealed no preimpact failures or malfunctions in the engine, airplane, or flight controls. The FAA inspectors were not able to weigh the cargo due to postcrash fire consumption. -