Aircraft Collision with Terrain During Takeoff (N37RA)

Accident Description and Pilot Report The pilot reported that the takeoff ground roll appeared longer than expected. The aircraft lifted off after traveling approximately two-thirds to three-quarters of the runway length. It reached an altitude of about 50 feet but was unable to climb higher. The pilot turned away from trees and continued attempting to avoid obstacles. The aircraft then struck trees about one mile southeast of the runway. The nose dropped, and the aircraft impacted the terrain in a steep nose-down attitude. ## Witness Observations Witnesses stated that the pilot began the takeoff roll at the 1,000-foot displaced threshold and used most of the runway before the aircraft lifted off. ## Airport and Environmental Conditions The airport elevation was 4,159 feet. The runway was 5,500 feet long and had a 1,000-foot displaced threshold. At the time of the accident, the calculated density altitude was 6,118 feet.