Incident Overview
A student pilot occupying the left seat initiated the takeoff with the flaps extended to 10 degrees. As the aircraft climbed to approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL) and passed over the departure end of the runway, the pilot-in-command (PIC) observed that the aircraft was sinking. The PIC immediately assumed control of the aircraft.
Collision and Avoidance Maneuver
While attempting to avoid nearby power lines, the PIC maneuvered the aircraft, which subsequently impacted trees. The post-accident examination revealed that the flap handle was found in the up position, indicating the flaps had been retracted at some point during the sequence.
Environmental and Mechanical Findings
The density altitude at the time of the occurrence was calculated to be 5,000 feet. An examination of the engine disclosed that the right magneto was not firing; however, subsequent tests indicated that this malfunction would result in a power loss of only 3.4 percent, which was determined to be minimal.
Conclusion
The event involved a student pilot conducting a takeoff with flaps set to 10 degrees, a sinking condition noted by the PIC at low altitude, and a subsequent collision with trees during an evasive maneuver to avoid power lines. The flaps were later found retracted, and the engine had a non-firing magneto, but the associated power loss was negligible.