Accident Summary
A pilot reported that after refueling at Grand Canyon airport and flying to Kayenta, the aircraft experienced a loss of performance during the initial climb from Kayenta. The pilot maintained an indicated airspeed between 40 and 45 knots but found that the aircraft would not climb. In an effort to increase airspeed, the pilot lowered the nose. While maneuvering to avoid a power plant, the aircraft struck the ground.
Flight History
The pilot had refueled the aircraft at Grand Canyon airport before proceeding to Kayenta. The takeoff and initial climb from Kayenta were conducted at a density altitude of about 9,000 feet. The pilot noted that despite maintaining 40 to 45 knots indicated airspeed, the aircraft failed to climb. After lowering the nose, the pilot had to navigate around a power plant, during which the aircraft impacted the terrain.
Aircraft and Performance Data
Available data indicated that at the airplane's estimated takeoff gross weight, the stall speed was approximately 43 knots indicated airspeed (about 57 knots calibrated airspeed). The density altitude at the time of the incident was approximately 9,000 feet.