What happened
During the takeoff phase of flight, a Piper PA-18-135 experienced a stall. Witnesses observed the aircraft maintaining a high nose attitude without gaining altitude while traveling at a slow airspeed. The aircraft subsequently banked to the left and struck trees. Following the impact with the trees, the aircraft descended to the ground, where it came to rest in an upside-down position.
The accident resulted in 1 fatality and 1 injury. The flight instructor sustained burns while escaping the wreckage. However, the student pilot receiving instruction was unable to escape and died of burns.
The investigation
Investigators examined both the engine and the airframe, finding no mechanical problems with either component. However, a review of the aircraft logbook revealed that the recorded gross weight was incorrect by 250 lbs. This documentation error had been present since May 19, 1980. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was 131 lbs over its maximum gross weight of 1,500 lbs.