Introduction
An accident occurred during a takeoff from an unlighted sod runway measuring 2,500 feet in length. The runway lacked reflective markers for its threshold or edges.
Accident Details
The pilot initiated a takeoff with a quartering tailwind of 7 knots. The aircraft became airborne approximately at midfield but did not gain altitude or airspeed as expected. It subsequently collided with trees and terrain about half a mile beyond the departure end of the runway. The collision and a post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that he opted for a downwind takeoff because he considered the 7-knot quartering tailwind to be slight and not a significant factor.
Investigation Findings
An on-scene examination revealed no evidence of mechanical issues with the engine or airframe that would have precluded normal operation. A drug screen performed on the pilot's urine sample, collected 10 days after the event, yielded a result of 'THC presumptive'. The screening did not differentiate between tetrahydrocannabinol, the active component of marijuana, and its inactive metabolite. Additionally, marijuana was found in a coat present in the aircraft; the pilot stated the coat belonged to the aircraft's former owner.