Background
The accident occurred at an airport situated in mountainous terrain at an elevation of 3,415 feet msl. The density altitude was approximately 5,841 feet msl. High terrain and obstacles were located immediately off the departure end of runway 24. The pilot consulted a resident pilot examiner regarding the proper takeoff procedure. The examiner recommended runway 06 for departure due to rising terrain off runway 24; however, a tailwind of 7 to 10 mph existed for runway 06. The FAA Airport/Facility Directory also recommended runway 06 for departure due to terrain.
Sequence of Events
The pilot calculated a total required ground roll of 2,100 feet using the Pilot's Operating Handbook. During the run-up, he leaned the mixture for best power and set the flaps to 10 degrees. He then taxied into position and applied full power with the brakes held. The engine rpm was normal and the engine sounded good.
After passing the departure end of the runway at about 60 feet agl, the positive climb rate of just over 200 fpm turned into a negative climb rate. The pilot stated that he had flown into a downdraft situation and that there was nothing he could do but keep the wings level and maintain airspeed as the airplane settled into the ground. At no time did the stall warning sound.
Witness Account
A witness, the pilot examiner, observed the accident. He reported that the airplane used most of the 4,100-foot-long runway before rotating. At about 100 feet agl, the witness saw the nose pitch up just before the airplane began descending. Subsequently, the airplane rolled left and slightly nose down, colliding with terrain.