Accident Summary
A Cessna T210K aircraft, operated by a certificated flight instructor on a recreational flight with passengers, experienced a loss of directional control during takeoff roll and crashed on the left side of the runway shortly after lift-off. The aircraft was destroyed by fire and impact.
Pilot and Flight Details
The pilot, who held a flight instructor certificate, elected to fly the airplane from the right seat. He stated that he had difficulty taxiing and maintaining directional control during the takeoff roll. The flight was described as recreational and was carrying passengers.
Aircraft Examination
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the stowable rudder pedals were found in the stowed position. The panel knob for the stowable pedals was observed in the engaged position.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft veered left during the takeoff roll and crashed on the left side of the runway shortly after becoming airborne. The subsequent impact and fire resulted in the destruction of the aircraft.