What happened
The pilot initiated departure from an unimproved airstrip measuring only 700 feet in length, heading in an easterly direction. According to the pilot's account, the aircraft achieved liftoff at an indicated airspeed between 35 and 40 knots. Despite leaving the ground, the aircraft failed to gain altitude.
The pilot attributed the performance issue to specific environmental factors present during the takeoff roll. A wind blowing down the runway with a speed of 5 to 7 knots created burbuling (turbulence) over the hill adjacent to the takeoff path. As the aircraft attempted to clear this terrain, the wind direction shifted, resulting in a tailwind condition. This shift caused a downdraft that further compromised the aircraft's ability to climb during the critical initial phase of flight.
The investigation
No mechanical examination or physical inspection of the aircraft was conducted as part of this report. The findings rely entirely on the pilot's narrative regarding the environmental conditions and aircraft performance during the takeoff attempt.