Incident Overview
The pilot/owner of the airplane, along with three other pilots, was planning to fly to an aviation safety meeting. A preflight inspection was completed, and fuel samples were taken. During the departure, flaps were set to 10 degrees and full power was applied during the takeoff roll. The airplane rotated near the end of the 3,000-foot runway, climbed to approximately 40 feet, and then settled down into the trees.
Aircraft and Operational Details
The pilot reported that no deficiencies were noted with the engine or the airplane during the takeoff. Examination of the circumstances revealed that at the time of takeoff, the airplane was approximately 175 pounds over its maximum gross weight. The airport's density altitude was 4,500 feet, and the takeoff runway had a 0.5% up-slope grade.
Procedural Considerations
The pilot's operating manual specifies that for an obstacle clearance takeoff, flaps should be set to 25 degrees and full power applied before brake release. The actual flap setting used was 10 degrees, and power was applied during the takeoff roll rather than before brake release.
Conclusion
No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source. The event resulted from a combination of weight, environmental, and procedural factors consistent with the findings of the examination.