Accident Overview
A Piper PA-18-135 stalled during takeoff and crashed. Witnesses observed the aircraft with its nose high, not climbing, and at a slow airspeed. The aircraft banked left and struck trees, then descended through the trees to the ground, coming to rest upside down.
Injuries
The Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) sustained burns while escaping the aircraft. The private pilot receiving instruction was unable to escape and died of burns.
Aircraft Examination
No problems were found with either the engine or the airframe. The aircraft logbook incorrectly indicated that the aircraft gross weight was 250 lbs too high. This condition had existed since May 19, 1980. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was 131 lbs over the maximum gross weight of 1500 lbs.