Departure and Landing Practice
The pilot departed from Griffith Airport on a local flight and proceeded to two other airports to practice landings. He first flew to Starke County Airport, where he made five or six landings. He then continued to Porter County Airport.
Sequence at Porter County Airport
After the fifth touch-and-go landing at Porter County Airport, the pilot prepared for takeoff by retracting the flaps and ensuring that the mixture was rich, carburetor heat was off, and the throttle was full forward.
Immediate Post-Takeoff Event
Following lift-off, the aircraft did not seem to climb normally. The pilot rechecked all controls and reported that everything appeared to be in the normal position, yet the aircraft was not climbing. Before he could initiate an emergency landing, the right wing struck the ground, and the aircraft crashed.
Investigation Findings
No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found during the investigation.