Accident Details
On June 22, 1985, a pilot and three passengers boarded the aircraft, registered as N98079. After taxiing to Runway 27, which has a one-degree upward slope, the aircraft began an extended ground roll. A left-quartering tailwind of approximately eight knots was present at the time. The aircraft was loaded about 49 pounds below its maximum gross weight, and the engine had accumulated 1,529 hours since its last major overhaul.
Flight and Collision
Following rotation, the aircraft maintained a nose-high attitude and initiated a left bank. It climbed to about 200 feet before the nose and left wing raised abruptly, and the right wing lowered. The aircraft then disappeared below the trees near the end of Runway 27. The aircraft came to rest in the backyard of a residence located at 5022 East Joppa Road in Perry Hall, Maryland.
Runway and Obstacle Clearance
Runway 27 is 2,200 feet in length. At the departure end, trees approximately 50 feet in height are present. According to performance data, at the time of the accident, about 1,917 feet of runway was required to clear a 50-foot obstacle, using a density altitude of 1,500 feet.
Engine Examination
Examination of the engine did not reveal any discrepancies, although the spark plugs appeared worn.