Accident Overview
During a takeoff from a 2,200-foot grass strip, the airplane overran the departure end and struck trees. The pilot reported that the initial acceleration for the short-field takeoff was normal until rotation speed was reached. After liftoff, the airplane failed to gain additional airspeed, with the pilot describing it as 'like if something was holding the airplane down.'
Pilot Actions and Assessment
Upon realizing that the airplane would not clear the trees at the departure end, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff. The pilot stated that the airplane was within weight and balance limits and that he had calculated the takeoff distance, concluding 'they had ample takeoff distance.'
Performance Data Review
A review of the takeoff distance charts in the pilot's operating handbook showed that clearing a 50-foot obstacle required 2,350 feet with flaps down and 2,950 feet with flaps up. The grass strip was 2,200 feet long. The pilot did not specify the flap setting used during the takeoff.