Background
A private pilot was planning to depart with his family from an airport where the density altitude was reported as 6,400 feet mean sea level. The winds at the time of departure were from 240 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 19 knots, and the departure runway was 28.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses to the accident stated that after liftoff, the airplane appeared to be slow and not climbing, maintaining a very nose-high attitude. Multiple witnesses reported that the airplane seemed to stall, with wings wavering side to side, before the left wing dropped just prior to ground impact. It was later determined that the airplane lifted off approximately 2/10 mile from the departure end of the runway.
Performance Data
According to the manufacturer, with zero flaps and full power at 85 knots, the airplane should have achieved a climb rate of 450 feet per minute. The pilot estimated his airspeed as 70 knots when he lifted the airplane off the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
The aircraft was recovered and an engine examination and operational check were conducted. Magneto-to-engine timing was within manufacturer's limits. Throttle and mixture controls operated to their full travel limits, and continuity was established to the cockpit. The engine was run up to full throttle with no abnormal conditions noted.