Departure and Terrain
The airplane took off from a 1,400-foot gravel runway that led toward rising terrain. The pilot stated that after crossing the departure end of the runway, the airplane stopped climbing.
Impact
The airplane subsequently struck a pole that was 5 feet tall, located at an elevation 20 feet above the airport's elevation. The impact occurred approximately 600 feet from the departure end of the runway. Additionally, the point of impact was roughly 2,000 feet from the approach end of the same runway.
Weight and Performance
The pilot calculated the takeoff weight to be 38 pounds below the maximum allowable takeoff weight. According to the Pilot Operating Handbook, the airplane required a ground roll of 900 feet for a short-field takeoff and a distance of 1,660 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle.
Additional Details
No other information was provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or occupants. The investigation did not specify any injuries, weather conditions, or ATC involvement.