What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft yawed to the left during the initial phase of takeoff. Despite attempts to correct the situation, the aircraft was unable to clear obstacles along the flight path. The pilot reduced power and executed a straight-in landing in a field located approximately one-quarter mile north of the runway. A witness observed the aircraft still in ground effect at a point approximately 3,000 feet down the runway. The witness further stated that the aircraft touched down near the end of the runway, full power was added, and the aircraft was pulled up in an attempt to climb. However, the aircraft then mushed to the ground, resulting in impact in a field.
The investigation
An examination of the circumstances revealed that the aircraft was 269 pounds over the maximum gross weight limit at the time of takeoff. Additionally, the aft center of gravity was located 1.7 inches behind the aft datum limit. A line boy who refueled the aircraft just prior to the attempted takeoff reported that the aircraft was covered with frost.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident were the aircraft being overweight and having a rearward center of gravity beyond limits. The presence of frost on the aircraft surfaces further degraded performance. These conditions prevented the aircraft from achieving sufficient climb performance to clear obstacles during takeoff.