What happened
The flight was conducted for the purpose of obtaining actual experience in short and soft field operations. The pilot initiated takeoff on a runway that presented multiple challenges: it was not only short and soft but also inclined uphill with a 70-degree left crosswind component.
Under these adverse conditions, the aircraft's performance was inadequate to clear an 80-foot tree located just 200 feet from the runway end. The aircraft impacted the tree, which resulted in the separation of the right wing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the takeoff performance and the physical damage sustained during the incident. The primary finding was that the aircraft could not achieve sufficient altitude or distance to clear the obstacle given the runway characteristics and wind conditions.
Findings
- Inadequate aircraft performance due to short, soft, and uphill runway combined with a 70-degree left crosswind.
- Impact with an 80-foot tree situated 200 feet from the runway end.
- Separation of the right wing as a direct result of the collision.
Safety message
Pilots conducting short and soft field operations must carefully evaluate all runway variables, including surface condition, slope, and crosswind components. These factors significantly reduce aircraft performance and may prevent clearing obstacles near the departure end of the runway.