What happened
The pilot attempted a takeoff from a 1600-foot unpaved strip composed of dirt and gravel. The runway conditions were compromised by melting snow, which left the surface wet and soft. Additionally, the strip featured a 3% downhill slope and had three significant heaves in the pavement. Trees standing 15 to 20 feet high were located at the departure end of the runway, creating an obstacle clearance requirement.
During the roll, the stall warning horn activated, and passengers observed the tail dragging the ground. Shortly after becoming airborne, the stall warning sounded again, and the aircraft settled back onto the runway. The pilot initiated abort procedures but was unable to stop within the remaining distance. He maneuvered to avoid a van before the aircraft nosed over on rough, uneven terrain.
The investigation
Post-acc examination revealed scrape marks on the underside of the tail, confirming ground contact during the takeoff roll. The pilot reported a potential engine problem, but passengers noted no loss of power. Performance calculations indicated that a no-wind takeoff on hard surface would require 1100 feet for no obstructions and 1970 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident were the soft field conditions and the downhill slope, which degraded acceleration and lift. The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff despite the stall warning and tail drag resulted in an inability to clear the trees at the departure end.