Accident Overview
A pilot operating a 1953 vintage airplane experienced an inadvertent stall after takeoff, resulting in the aircraft striking trees at the departure end of the airstrip. The accident occurred on a 3,600-foot long grass airstrip that was surrounded by rising terrain.
Pilot Statement
The pilot, who had accumulated 1,035 flight hours, stated that the flight encountered 'shifting breezes and sink, and the terrain rose faster than we did.'
Aircraft and Terrain
The airplane came to rest wedged atop 30-foot oak and elm trees in a residential subdivision. The airstrip was situated in an area with rising terrain, which likely contributed to the pilot's difficulty in maintaining a safe climb.
Weather Conditions
According to weather observations at Drake Field Airport (FYV), located 6 miles west of the accident site, winds were reported from 250 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 19 knots. The airplane's flight manual indicated that, under the existing weather conditions and at the calculated gross weight, the aircraft should have been capable of climbing at 600 feet per minute.
Investigation Findings
The pilot failed to obtain the proper climb rate after takeoff, leading to an inadvertent stall and subsequent impact with trees.