Incident Overview
A pilot attempted a soft-field takeoff from a 1,600-foot dirt and gravel strip. The strip was wet and soft from melting snow, featured a 3% downhill slope, and had 15-to-20-foot trees at the departure end. The pilot reported three sizable heaves in the runway surface.
Takeoff and Stall Warning
Shortly after becoming airborne, the stall warning horn activated, and the aircraft settled back onto the runway. The pilot initiated abort procedures but was unable to stop on the remaining runway. To avoid a van, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft, which subsequently nosed over on rough, uneven terrain.
Performance Estimates
For a no-wind takeoff on a hard surface with no obstructions, the estimated takeoff roll was 1,100 feet, and the distance to clear a 50-foot obstruction was 1,970 feet.
Pilot and Passenger Accounts
The pilot suggested a possible engine problem, but passengers reported no loss of power. According to the passengers, the stall warning horn was active during the takeoff roll, and the tail was dragging along the ground. Investigators found scrape marks on the underside of the tail.
Findings
The incident involved a combination of challenging runway conditions and a stall warning during the takeoff. The aircraft's tail contacted the ground, as evidenced by scrape marks. No probable cause was determined from the available information.