Aircraft Failed to Clear Obstacles After Takeoff from an Upslope Sod Strip (N8560H)

Incident Overview and Initial Climb Issues According to the pilot and witnesses, the airplane did not establish an adequate climb after initial liftoff. The aircraft cleared 20-foot trees at the end of the runway but failed to clear a 30-foot power pole crossbar and wires. ## Runway Conditions and Performance Data The takeoff was attempted in calm winds from a 1,500-foot sod strip with an uphill slope. Performance data indicated that, for the conditions existing at the time, the airplane required an 875-foot ground run and 1,775 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle. The airplane struck the power pole 1,800 feet from the departure end of the runway. ## Limitations of the Performance Data The performance data did not account for the sod runway surface or the upslope. The pilot stated in his report that, given the opportunity to do it again, he would not have attempted the takeoff under the same conditions.