Accident Overview
A pilot of a single-engine airplane initiated a takeoff and experienced engine surging after liftoff. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff and land on the remaining runway. However, the airplane could not be stopped before running off the end of the runway and striking a ditch.
Post-Accident Inspection
Following the accident, a detailed inspection of the airplane and an engine test run were conducted. No mechanical defects or anomalies were identified that could explain the engine surging.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, weather conditions were present that are conducive to the formation of carburetor ice. The temperature was 53 degrees Fahrenheit, and the dewpoint was 29 degrees Fahrenheit. Carburetor icing can cause engine power loss or surging in certain conditions.