On November 25, 1995, a Champion 7ECA (registration N11081) was involved in an aviation accident near Lacona, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate preflight/planning, and his failure to remain clear of obstacles, including a tree trunk. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A ski-equipped airplane failed to clear a 15-foot obstacle during takeoff from a 1,140-foot runway covered with wet snow, hitting a stump and subsequently crashing into a hedge row.
Accident Details
The ski-equipped airplane was departing from a runway that measured 1,140 feet in length and was covered with wet snow. During the takeoff roll, the airplane was unable to clear an obstacle at the departure end of the runway. The airplane struck a stump located at the end of the runway.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that after completing a preflight inspection, he taxied to the end of the runway and performed a run-up. All checks indicated that everything was "okay," so he proceeded with the takeoff. According to the pilot, he did not achieve sufficient airspeed to clear a 15-foot obstacle at the departure end. The airplane subsequently hit the stump.
Sequence of Events
Following the impact with the stump, the airplane became airborne. However, the pilot stated that he could not regain control of the airplane. The airplane then fell to the right and landed in a hedge row.