Accident Sequence
According to the investigation, the pilot did not retract the flaps before initiating takeoff. After becoming airborne, she observed that the aircraft was not gaining airspeed or altitude. The tower controller informed her that the flaps appeared incorrect. The pilot stated that she reached to check the flap switch but could not recall any further details about the accident.
Ground witnesses reported that the aircraft was climbing with the flaps extended following takeoff. After reaching an altitude of approximately 100 to 200 feet above ground level, the aircraft stalled and descended. During the crash sequence, it struck a transmission line, a solar collector on a house roof, and a fence.
Post-Crash Examination
An examination of the aircraft after the accident revealed that the flaps had been retracted by the time the aircraft impacted the ground.