Accident Overview
The pilot was asked by the airport manager to fly a parachute jump flight in a Cessna 172. The manager suggested that the pilot make a soft field takeoff and climb straight out to gain altitude. Witnesses reported the takeoff and initial climb appeared normal, but at about 200 feet above ground level, the airplane leveled off, then descended about 50 feet and continued forward for a moment. The right wing then dropped and the airplane entered a steep descent. It crashed on wooded terrain along the extended centerline of the runway and burned.
Examination Findings
No preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure of the airplane was found. There was evidence that the engine was producing power. The passenger door, right front seat, and rear seat had been removed for parachute jumping, leaving only the pilot's seat. No record was found of a new weight and balance computation. The airplane was estimated to be 76 pounds over its maximum takeoff weight. The airplane was equipped with dual controls. A jumper was observed sitting at the right front seat passenger door area, leaning against the rear door frame, with his legs straight out in front of him, his feet crossed and at the very outside edge of the plane. Due to fire damage, use of seat belts was not verified.
Pilot Information
This was the pilot's first parachute jump flight and first flight with the door removed.