Takeoff and Initial Climb
The accident occurred during a full-power takeoff with flaps set at 25 degrees. The airplane became airborne approximately 1,500 feet down the grass runway. After clearing a high line at the departure end of the runway, the airplane stopped climbing.
Maneuvering and Descent
Upon observing a tree line, the pilot executed a 90-degree turn to the east. During the turn, the airplane started to mush. The pilot then returned the airplane to straight flight, but it continued to mush until contacting the ground. The pilot reported that the airplane appeared to be under full power throughout the event.
Aircraft and Environmental Conditions
The airplane's weight at takeoff was 2,260 pounds, which is below the maximum gross weight of 2,325 pounds. The field elevation was 330 feet, and the temperature was 97 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a calculated density altitude of 2,800 feet.
Damage
The airplane was destroyed by a post-crash fire.