Incident Overview
A pilot flying a general aviation airplane experienced an aborted takeoff that resulted in the aircraft exiting the side of a grass runway and striking a reflector stand. The incident occurred at Freeport Airport, where the pilot had landed earlier without incident.
Pre-Flight Preparation
According to the investigation, the pilot departed from Moline without obtaining a weather briefing or current NOTAMs applicable to the flight. Upon arrival at Freeport Airport, the pilot discovered that the airport's only asphalt runway was closed. This left two grass runways as the only available landing surfaces. The pilot landed on one of the grass runways without incident.
Return Flight Calculations
In preparation for the return flight, the pilot performed weight and balance calculations as well as takeoff performance calculations. The pilot reported that all calculations indicated the aircraft was within operational limits.
Takeoff Attempt
During the takeoff roll on the grass runway, the airplane did not accelerate properly in ground effect. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff. The airplane subsequently exited the side of the runway and impacted a reflector stand.
Runway Characteristics
Neither of the grass runways had lighting; they were marked only with reflectors. The investigation noted that the airplane struck one of these reflector stands during the abort.
Subsequent Actions
The pilot was able to stop the airplane after the impact. No injuries were reported. The aircraft sustained damage from the collision with the reflector stand.