Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) was demonstrating a soft field takeoff on runway 6 to a student pilot. The CFI attempted an early rotation at 45–50 knots, raising the nose higher than a normal pitch attitude. As the stall warning horn sounded, the CFI lowered the pitch, but the airplane rolled to the left. The CFI reduced power, neutralized the ailerons, applied right rudder, and lowered the nose, recovering control. However, the airplane was heading toward trees. The CFI reapplied power, but the airplane rolled to the left again, struck the ground, and nosed over.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the airplane with a high nose attitude just before it impacted the ground.
Pilot Statement
According to police, the pilot stated that the airplane had taken off in a northeasterly direction and was about 20 feet above the runway, with a climb angle of approximately 15–17 degrees.
Previous Flight Characteristics
Another CFI who had flown the airplane reported that during a power-on/off demonstration flight, the airplane required 2,200 feet of altitude to recover from a stall.
Maintenance History
Examination of the airplane's maintenance records revealed an entry dated May 20, 1996, documenting a right rolling tendency. A mechanic signed off the entry as "checked aileron rigging within limits." There was no record of a test flight after the write-up.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector conducted a post-accident examination and found control continuity to all flight controls.