Accident Overview
During the initial climb after takeoff, the right side of the engine cowling became unfastened and began fluttering violently. The instructor pilot assumed control of the aircraft and executed a forced landing straight ahead into a cultivated field. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed up and sustained substantial damage.
Sequence of Events
The takeoff was initiated from a runway intersection, leaving approximately 2,500 feet of the 5,118-foot runway for the takeoff roll. Shortly after becoming airborne, the cowling issue occurred. The instructor, who was on board, took over control and elected to land straight ahead in the cultivated field rather than attempting to return to the airport.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector who was at the airport witnessed the accident and subsequently examined the aircraft. The inspector reported that the Dzus fasteners on the right side of the top portion of the cowling were absent. The reason for the loss of these fasteners was not determined.
Maintenance and Runway Context
A maintenance inspection had been performed on the aircraft 20 minutes prior to the flight. The aircraft had been operated from a runway intersection, reducing the available takeoff distance to about 2,500 feet.