Incident Overview
An aircraft contacted terrain in a cotton field during an uncontrolled descent that occurred on takeoff. The pilot was test flying the aircraft in anticipation of possibly purchasing it.
Flight Details
The pilot reported that when approximately halfway down the runway, the aircraft did not appear as though it would clear trees at the end of the runway. He elected to continue the takeoff and dump the 110-gallon load of water on board. Upon crossing the end of the runway at an altitude of 10 to 20 feet above ground level, the pilot initiated a turn to avoid the trees. During the turn, the pilot intended to dump the load, but he inadvertently deployed the flaps. The aircraft then settled into the cotton field.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that he noticed insufficient clearance over the trees halfway down the runway and decided to proceed with the takeoff while jettisoning the water load. However, in the turn after crossing the runway end, his intended action of dumping the water resulted in the unintended extension of flaps, leading to the aircraft settling into the field.
Owner Statement
The aircraft owner stated that the pilot was briefed on takeoff distances and the aircraft performance, but failed to use all available runway for the takeoff.