Flight Information
The pilot was advised by the airport owner not to fly because he appeared to be intoxicated. The pilot acknowledged the advice and left, but returned approximately one hour later and proceeded with the flight. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft drifted off the runway, struck plastic markers, then re-entered the runway and continued the takeoff.
Witness Accounts
Two witnesses reported that after lift-off, the aircraft was in a nose-high attitude with low speed and continued flying just above the ground. Subsequently, the aircraft entered a left bank and crashed into trees near the end of the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
After the accident, the flaps were found fully extended. The pilot's seat belt was not fastened. The right front (passenger) seat was found off its seat track, and the front seat stops for that seat had not been installed. No other mechanical problems were found. The pilot's blood sample, taken shortly after the accident, showed an alcohol level of 183 mg/dL (0.183%).
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that his seat slipped backward during takeoff and the passenger grabbed the control wheel and pulled back, causing the aircraft to stall. The Pilot's Operating Handbook recommended a maximum of 10 degrees of flaps for takeoff.