Overview
An aircraft that had landed at McKenzie Bridge State Airport, where two passengers deplaned, subsequently departed on Runway 06. During the takeoff, the aircraft collided with trees approximately 15 yards from the departure end at about 20 feet above ground level. It then came to rest and burned roughly 30 yards from the runway.
Airport Information
McKenzie Bridge State Airport features a 2,600-foot turf runway with an upslope gradient of 3.4% toward the east. The field elevation is 1,620 feet. According to the Airport/Facility Directory, the airport is unattended, and advisories state: "LAND TO E, TAKEOFF TO W. CAUTION - OWNER ADVISES CONTACT WITH STATE AERONAUTICS DIV. (503-378-4880) PRIOR TO USE." Signage at the east end reads: "WARNING - TAKEOFF AT THIS END ONLY." A sign at the west end states: "WARNING - TAKEOFF NOT RECOMMENDED FROM THIS END."
Weather Conditions
At a ranger station located 1.5 miles west of the airport, the recorded temperature was 87°F, and the wind was from the southwest at 6 mph. A forest service official estimated that wind speeds were higher at the airport itself.
Investigation
An on-site investigation and subsequent engine teardown found no evidence of preimpact malfunction or failure.