Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft did not accelerate to a speed sufficient for flight. After reaching an altitude of 200 feet, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff and landed the aircraft back on the runway. However, the aircraft continued beyond the end of the runway and collided with a sandbank.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported difficulty starting the engine and observed an excessive magneto drop during the engine run-up. This condition was corrected by leaning the mixture. During the takeoff, the engine produced less than the desired RPM, prompting the pilot to abort. He later stated that he should have aborted the takeoff earlier.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed no malfunctions or mechanical failures. The aircraft was being operated at a high gross weight. The pilot was not accustomed to operations in conditions of high density altitude.