Overview
The accident occurred during takeoff from a grass airstrip. According to the pilot, the aircraft struggled to become airborne and was barely off the ground when it reached the end of the runway. At that moment, crosswind conditions were encountered, causing the aircraft to mush or stall and subsequently impact the ground.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll, the aircraft was barely airborne as it reached the end of the airstrip. He then encountered crosswind conditions, which led to the aircraft mushing/stalling and impacting the ground.
Post-Accident Analysis
Post-accident computations indicated that the aircraft was 55 pounds above its maximum allowable takeoff gross weight. However, its center of gravity remained within limits. The takeoff was attempted on a 2,600-foot-long grass strip under conditions of a density altitude of 3,000 feet and a crosswind component of 20 knots.