Accident Details
A recently acquired airplane was involved in an accident during takeoff from a grass strip. According to the new owner, who occupied the left seat, the flight was intended to reposition the airplane to Williamson-Sodus Airport. The new owner expressed discomfort with departing from the grass strip and requested the previous owner to fly the airplane from a nearby airport where he would feel more at ease.
The takeoff was initiated to the north. During the takeoff roll, the airplane began to veer to the right. Shortly after liftoff, when the airplane was approximately 15 feet above the ground, the right wing struck trees located on the right side of the runway. The airplane then nosed into the trees and came to rest facing the opposite direction of travel.
Statements
The previous owner stated that there was no mechanical malfunction with the airplane. He further commented that the accident could have been prevented with more preparation. The identity of the person manipulating the controls at the time of the accident remains undetermined; however, the previous owner reported to the Federal Aviation Administration that the new owner was at the controls.