Background
According to flying club records, the purpose of the flight was to complete an initial aircraft check for the pilot in a Cessna 152. The check was part of new member in-processing. The pilot was re-joining the flying club after a nine-year absence.
Flight History
The pilot had performed three previous takeoffs and landings prior to the accident takeoff. One witness described all four takeoffs as 'high performance.'
Witness Observations
Several witnesses provided written statements about the accident takeoff. When the airplane reached an altitude of approximately 100 to 150 feet, they stated the airplane pitched up to an 'extremely' nose-high attitude. Four witnesses described the pitch angle as '...well over 45 degrees...', '...45 to 60 degrees...', '...60 to 70 degrees up...', and '...60 degrees at least...'. Two witnesses described the pitch angle by comparing it to the position of a clock face, stating the nose was up at the '...one o'clock position.' Two witnesses said the airplane was '...just hanging on the prop.' Each pilot was airline transport rated with a combined flight experience of approximately 8,000 hours.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the airplane did not disclose evidence of mechanical malfunction.