Accident Overview
A recently certificated commercial pilot attempted a takeoff in an airplane loaded to approximately its maximum certificated gross weight. The departure was attempted on a runway measuring 4,000 feet in length, despite the availability of an 8,000-foot runway. The outside air temperature was 98 degrees Fahrenheit.
During the ground roll, the pilot overrotated the airplane, causing the tail skid to scrape the runway surface. In response, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff. However, insufficient distance remained to bring the airplane to a stop before the end of the runway.
Sequence of Events
The airplane overran the departure end of the runway, colliding with a fence and a dirt bank. Following the collision, the airplane caught fire.
Pilot Experience and Performance Data
Prior to this flight, the pilot's total in-command experience in this specific airplane model was 1.0 hour. Performance data indicated that, with proper control inputs and using two notches of wing flaps, the airplane might have successfully been able to take off from the shorter runway.
Key Facts
- The airplane was loaded to near its maximum certificated gross weight.
- The pilot used one notch of wing flaps for takeoff.
- A longer runway (8,000 feet) was available but not used.
- The pilot overrotated and scraped the tail skid during the ground roll.
- The aborted takeoff resulted in a runway overrun, collision with a fence and dirt bank, and subsequent fire.