Accident Details
The runway, measuring 2970 feet in length at an elevation of 820 feet, was mostly surrounded by trees. The temperature was approximately 81°F, yielding an estimated density altitude of 2700 feet. As the pilot and passenger taxied to Runway 2 for departure, the wind sock—located below the tree tops—was noted to be limp.
During the takeoff roll, lift-off occurred at 65 mph after an estimated 600 feet. A climb was established at 75 to 80 mph. However, as the aircraft climbed above the trees, a left drift was encountered and the aircraft stopped climbing, despite no apparent engine problem. At that point, insufficient runway remained to abort the takeoff, and the aircraft was approaching trees near the end of the runway.
The pilot then traded airspeed for altitude to clear the trees. Subsequently, the aircraft began to mush and settled into smaller trees, coming to rest with substantial damage.
Pilot Report
The pilot believed that the aircraft encountered a quartering tailwind and a downdraft as it was climbing above the trees during takeoff, and subsequently got behind the power curve.