Incident Overview
A pilot flying to Hilliard Airpark for soft field landing practice experienced an accident during a subsequent takeoff. According to the pilot's statement, after completing an initial soft field landing, they taxied the length of the runway and discussed the takeoff plan, including density altitude, obstacles on climbout, takeoff weight, and a designated abort point on the field.
Takeoff and Sequence of Events
Following a brief run-up, the pilot initiated the takeoff. The engine developed normal power, but as the aircraft approached trees on climbout, it became apparent that they would not clear the treeline. The pilot relinquished control to a flight instructor-rated passenger, who attempted to turn slightly left toward an area with shorter trees offering better clearance. However, during the maneuver, the right wing struck a tree, causing the aircraft to crash nose down and come to rest inverted.
Airport Status
The airport had been NOTAMed closed, and the runway was marked with an "X", indicating it was closed. The closure was due to tree growth off the end of the runways, along the flight path. The pilot did not indicate that they had checked the NOTAMs or that they were aware the airport was closed.
Official Statements
No further official statements were provided in the source regarding contributing factors, injuries, or aircraft damage.