Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during a takeoff attempt from a 2,000-foot-long runway covered with wet grass 7 to 8 inches tall, the aircraft accelerated and lifted off into ground effect. According to the pilot, the aircraft did not accelerate and climb as expected while flying in ground effect. At the end of the runway, the pilot pulled up, but the airplane stalled (mushed) into trees.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that he taxied to the end of the runway and performed a run-up. During takeoff, he advanced the throttle full forward and began the takeoff roll. The aircraft lifted off into ground effect, but despite remaining in ground effect, it did not accelerate or climb as expected. The pilot believed the accident could have been avoided if he had departed from an airport with a longer runway.
FAA Inspector's Observation
An FAA inspector reported that the pilot attempted to take off from a strip covered with wet grass that was 7 to 8 inches tall. The runway length was 2,000 feet.
Performance Data
The Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) indicated that a takeoff distance of 1,615 feet was needed to clear a 50-foot obstacle during takeoff from a hard surfaced runway, at maximum gross weight, with flaps up, wind zero, and sea level conditions. There was no chart for takeoff performance from a grass strip.