Event Description
According to the pilot, the accident flight involved a routine takeoff from a 2,800-foot runway with a load similar to previous flights. However, on this occasion, the airplane did not become airborne at the usual place. The pilot attempted to dump the chemical load but missed the dump handle. After reaching the end of the runway, the airplane became airborne, crossed a ravine where the ground dropped off approximately 30 feet into a creek bed, and impacted terrain on the far side of the creek.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that he normally followed the manufacturer's recommended short field takeoff procedure, which called for the use of a 10-degree flap setting. However, he indicated that he might not have used the flaps on the accident flight. No further details about the aircraft, registration, or occupants were provided in the source.