What happened
The aircraft departed from a runway with a total length of 3,000 feet. According to the owner and second pilot, the plane required the entire length of the runway to achieve liftoff. Approximately one-half mile from the departure end of the runway, the aircraft struck a tree that was 60 feet tall. Following the impact, the aircraft crashed into a nearby residential area.
The investigation
Examination of the flight data revealed that the takeoff weight was approximately 2,400 pounds. This figure exceeded the aircraft's maximum gross weight limit of 2,350 pounds by 50 pounds. The excess weight contributed to the inability to become airborne within a normal distance.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the excessive takeoff weight. By operating above the certified maximum gross weight, the aircraft's performance was degraded, necessitating the full runway length for departure and resulting in an insufficient climb gradient over obstacles near the airport boundary. The pilot failed to ensure the aircraft was within weight limits before attempting takeoff.