Incident Overview
A pilot and passenger, each weighing 185 pounds, planned a local flight in a rented Cessna 152. The aircraft's fuel tanks were full. The pilot reported that during the pre-takeoff engine run-up, no mechanical difficulties or malfunctions were observed. The pilot also reported that the aircraft's acceleration during the takeoff roll was slow and the aircraft felt "lazy" during climb.
Sequence of Events
When the aircraft failed to gain altitude and it appeared additional lift would be necessary to clear obstacles, the pilot lowered the flaps 10 degrees. Subsequently, the aircraft stalled, control was lost, and the aircraft came to rest in a residential swimming pool.
Examination Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the pilot had taken off with the ignition key set to the left magneto position. Additionally, at departure, the aircraft's maximum gross weight had been exceeded by about 15 pounds.