Scenario
During a training flight, the airplane was approximately 48 pounds over its maximum gross weight. The runway had an upslope of about 1/2 degree. Published takeoff ground roll distances for that aircraft were 1,075 feet for a level runway and 1,214 feet for a 1-degree upslope.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the initial rotation attempt after approximately 800 feet of ground roll. The nose rose off the runway and then went back down two or three times before the airplane became airborne at the end of the runway.
Descent and Impact
Terrain descended at the end of the runway. After liftoff, the airplane roughly descended parallel to that downslope while in ground effect. It struck trees 390 feet beyond the runway end at an elevation of 10 feet above ground level. The airplane came to rest 561 feet from the runway end and was consumed by fire.
Engine Performance
Witnesses reported that engine performance and acceleration did not seem optimum, but no discrepancies were discovered during subsequent inspection.
Pilot Experience
The pilot had extensive experience in high-performance United States Air Force jets. However, he had only 1 hour of dual instruction in the accident make and model prior to the flight, and three known dual flights in civilian airplanes. The only runway used during this training was 8,000 feet long.