C of G, power , flames
In defence of the MD600, it is one of the very few helicopters that has the power to carry 6 passengers and full fuel. With regard to c of g , if you have one pilot - empty of fuel, one pilot- full of fuel, 6 passengers-empty of fuel or 6 passengers fuel of fuel it is still within limits. With regards to the original post the answer is simple, the pilot should not have applied after burner until he had at least taken off!!!