Event Details
The airplane impacted a tree while the pilot was aborting a takeoff from a private grass airstrip measuring 2,000 feet in length. The pilot reported that the takeoff roll proceeded normally, with all engine gauges and flight instruments indicating typical values, except for the airspeed indicator, which stayed between 65 and 70 knots. During the aborted takeoff, the pilot steered the airplane off the right side of the runway to avoid a tree, but the right wing subsequently struck another tree.
Airstrip Conditions
The airstrip consisted of grass that was between 12 and 14 inches high at the time of the incident.
Engine Examination
Following the occurrence, the airplane's engine was operated within the airframe at various power settings, including full power, and performed within the manufacturer's specifications. A review of the engine maintenance logbooks revealed no outstanding or uncorrected maintenance discrepancies.