Departure Attempt from Short Airstrip
Following a social event attended by many of the pilot's friends, the pilot attempted to depart from a 1,500-ft airstrip adjacent to the meeting area. Only 1,100 ft of the airstrip was available for takeoff and landing. According to the airplane operator's manual, 1,700 ft was required to clear a 50-ft obstacle at sea level. The density altitude at the time was 2,000 ft.
Flap Setting Discrepancy
The pilot used 10 degrees of flaps instead of the manufacturer's recommended 25 degrees for takeoff. This deviation from the recommended procedure may have affected the aircraft's performance during the departure.
Intentional Ground Loop
After releasing the brakes, the pilot accelerated down the airstrip. At a distance of 1,397 ft from the point of brake release, the pilot intentionally ground looped the airplane to avoid impacting trees at the departure end of the airstrip. During the maneuver, the airplane's right wing impacted a tree and was sheared off.
Passenger Statements
Passengers on board stated that the pilot was "showing off" his pilot skills for his friends by landing in such a small strip. No further details about the pilot's intentions or the events leading up to the departure were provided.