Witness Observations
After takeoff, witnesses observed the aircraft in an unusually high pitch attitude, which some described as a stalled condition. Passengers reported that the aircraft began to shake after takeoff but that the engine noise did not change. The aircraft descended in the high pitch attitude until ground impact.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence to indicate pre-crash failure or malfunction of the aircraft structure, flight controls, or engine.
Weight and Balance
Calculations indicated that the aircraft was approximately 150 pounds over the maximum allowable gross weight at the time of the accident. Additionally, the center of gravity was 2.8 inches forward of the forward limit for the weight conditions.
Trim Setting
The stabilator trim was found at the 9-degree tab-down, or nose-up, position. The aircraft flight manual calls for trim near neutral for takeoff.
Pilot Experience
According to the pilot's logbook, the pilot did not have the required three takeoffs and landings in the past 90 days required by regulations to act as pilot-in-command carrying passengers.