What happened
The accident occurred during the initial phase of an aerial application flight. The pilot initiated takeoff while the aircraft was loaded to its maximum gross weight limit. Shortly after becoming airborne, the aircraft began to lose altitude and settle toward the ground. The impact with the terrain resulted in a slightly nose-down attitude.
The investigation
Investigators examined the accident site and determined that the location had an elevation of 5,300 feet mean sea level (MSL). Meteorological data indicated that the takeoff was conducted to the east into a headwind. Wind conditions at the time were from 270 degrees at a speed of 14 knots.
Findings
The combination of maximum gross weight and high-density altitude likely contributed to the aircraft's inability to maintain positive climb performance. The 5,300 feet MSL elevation significantly reduced engine power output and wing lift capability. Operating at maximum gross weight further exacerbated the performance deficit during the critical takeoff phase.
Safety message
Pilots must carefully calculate takeoff performance data for high-elevation airports. Operating at maximum gross weight in such conditions leaves little margin for error, especially when wind components are insufficient to offset the density altitude effects.