Incident Overview
An aerial spraying aircraft attempted to takeoff from Runway 17 at Timber Lake Airport, a 2,400-foot by 120-foot dry turf runway. The aircraft was loaded with 270 gallons of solution. The density altitude at the time was 3,680 feet. A weather reporting station 30 miles away at 075 degrees magnetic reported calm winds.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft lifted off but then settled back onto the runway. It lifted off again and subsequently struck a fence. The pilot decided to continue and began dumping the chemical load. The aircraft then struck another fence and posts before coming to rest on a road east of the airport.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated he did not believe there were any problems with the aircraft. In his written statement, he remarked, '... what I wish I would have done is taken off on the other runway or not have filled her quite as full.' The South Dakota Airport Directory lists a second turf runway (Runway 12/30) at Timber Lake, measuring 3,300 feet by 150 feet.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination revealed no mechanical anomalies.