Accident Summary
On August 28, 1986, at night, an aircraft departed on a takeoff from an airport with an elevation of 5,586 feet. Approximately 1.5 miles from the end of the runway, the aircraft collided with rising terrain at an elevation of about 5,600 feet. A witness reported seeing the aircraft take off, but observed that it did not climb after becoming airborne.
Pilot Background
The pilot had undergone surgery on May 1, 1986, to remove an acoustic tumor from his right ear. The procedure included removal of the eighth nerve, which controls balance. The attending physician suggested a recuperation period of approximately one year due to equilibrium problems associated with this surgery. On July 12, 1986, the pilot received a first-class medical certificate, which was valid for flight test only.
Witness Account
A witness stated that he saw the aircraft take off, but it did not climb after liftoff. The accident occurred in an area isolated from ground lights.
Investigation Findings
A post-crash examination revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction of the aircraft structure, flight controls, engine, or propellers. According to the pilot's logbook, his last night flight occurred on March 22, 1985. Additionally, the pilot had been on duty for approximately 14 hours at the time of the accident.