Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's delay in aborting the takeoff.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot/owner stated that prior to departing the grass strip oriented 140 degrees; the reported wind was from 250 degrees at 9 knots gusting to 18 knots. He also reported that the airplane's takeoff weight was 23 pounds below its maximum allowable gross weight. The airplane reached rotation speed at the midpoint of the runway, but at rotation the airplane would not climb, and the pilot noticed a loss of airspeed but no loss of engine power. The pilot aborted the takeoff, but the airplane overran the departure end and struck a ditch and an embankment. According to the pilot, there were no mechanical deficiencies with his airplane.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ERA12CA040