Accident Summary
A pilot and a pilot-rated passenger departed on a pleasure flight to attend a barbecue at a private airstrip. Witnesses at the airstrip observed the aircraft approach the runway from the south in a landing configuration, with no problems noted. The aircraft then flew over the entire length of the airstrip, maintaining an altitude of about 6 feet above the runway. After overflying the airstrip, the aircraft banked to the left and headed toward rapidly rising, mountainous terrain, subsequently impacting trees.
Investigation Findings
No abnormal engine noises were reported by witnesses, and a post-impact examination revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions. The carburetor heat control was found in a partially out position, and the flaps were partially extended. The accident site was near an airstrip where takeoffs to the north are prohibited due to terrain and obstructions. The density altitude at the time of the accident was computed to be approximately 3,747 feet.
Meteorological and Operational Conditions
The density altitude calculation indicates that the air density was lower than standard, which can affect aircraft performance. The airstrip's prohibition on northbound takeoffs suggests that terrain and obstructions in that direction pose a hazard. However, the investigation did not identify any specific causal factors for the accident.