Flight Details
The accident occurred during a simulated short field takeoff. The second pilot reported that he was conducting the maneuver, and the senior pilot-in-command was also on the controls. During the takeoff roll, the second pilot discovered his seat belt was not fastened, which created a distraction. He fastened the belt and continued the takeoff.
Accident Sequence
According to the tower controller who witnessed the event, the nose of the airplane appeared excessively high during the takeoff. The airplane reached a maximum altitude of about 200 feet. Subsequently, the left wing dipped, and the airplane impacted the terrain.
Postaccident Investigation
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the elevator trim jack screw was in the full nose-up position. The investigation disclosed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction.