Accident Overview
A Piper PA-28-140, operated by the aircraft owner/pilot, was departing for the island of Kauai to perform masonry work. The accident site was located approximately half a mile from the end of the runway.
Aircraft Load and Weight
The airplane was loaded with masonry tools, tiles, clothing, a life raft, and a large ice chest. Following the accident, the baggage and cargo that were not consumed in the postcrash fire were weighed. The total weight indicated that the airplane exceeded the maximum allowable gross weight by about 241 pounds. Additionally, the rear seat had been removed, and its weight was subtracted from the load, which was not secured.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported seeing the airplane flying at a low altitude and slow speed, with a nose-high attitude prior to the accident.