David D. Weaver

Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I

Witnesses reported a normal takeoff and climb was made to an altitude of approximately 400 feet agl at which time engine power ceased/decreased. The right wing then dropped, the nose and left wing rose and the aircraft entered a near vertical descent to ground impact. Post accident examination of the engines and turbochargers failed to disclose any pre-impact failures. Examination of the prop governors disclosed an rpm setting below takeoff or climb power; however, exact rpm setting could not be determined. The pilot had recently purchased this aircraft and most of his multi-engine experience was in Beech Barons. The throttle quadrant location of the throttle and prop controls on the Baron are in the reverse position of those on the Cessna 421. The pilot also had not been check out in the Cessna 421. All four occupants were killed.