April 15, 2008, Dimas, Calif., Piper PA-23-160

At about 2041 Pacific time, the airplane impacted terrain following a loss of control during takeoff initial climb. The two commercial pilots aboard sustained serious injuries, and the airplane was substantially damaged. Night visual conditions prevailed. The flights purpose was for the left-seat pilot to demonstrate the airplane to the right-seat pilot.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • An airplane crashed shortly after takeoff during initial climb, seriously injuring two commercial pilots and substantially damaging the aircraft.
  • The accident was attributed to a reported loss of power in the left engine, causing the plane to enter an "erratic left turn" before impacting terrain.
  • The flight's purpose was for one pilot to demonstrate the airplane to the other during night visual conditions.
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At about 2041 Pacific time, the airplane impacted terrain following a loss of control during takeoff initial climb. The two commercial pilots aboard sustained serious injuries, and the airplane was substantially damaged. Night visual conditions prevailed. The flights purpose was for the left-seat pilot to demonstrate the airplane to the right-seat pilot.

The left-seat pilot subsequently reported the left engine lost power during the takeoff initial climb. Air traffic control personnel in the Tower observed the accident and reported the airplane entered an “erratic left turn” and crashed into the side of hill shortly after takeoff.

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