Discontinued Takeoff Ends in Tree Strike at Unapproved Grass Strip (N5490P)

Incident Overview and Runway Conditions The accident involved two certified flight instructors (CFIs) attempting to depart from a private grass strip. The strip was approximately 1,800 feet long and oriented along an approximate heading of 310/130 degrees. The source notes that the grass strip was not approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). ## Takeoff Sequence The flying CFI initiated a short-field takeoff from runway 31. The pilot-in-command (PIC) CFI established a 'mental abort point,' and the takeoff was discontinued at that point. A second takeoff was then initiated in the opposite direction. This second attempt was also discontinued at an abort point; however, the airplane was unable to stop before reaching the end of the runway. ## Impact and Wreckage Examination As the aircraft reached the end of the runway, the PIC CFI applied full right rudder to 'spin the aircraft out.' The airplane struck a tree near the left wing root. This impact ruptured the left fuel tank and spun the airplane 90 degrees to the direction of travel. Examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact damage to the engine or the airframe. ## Environmental Factors Winds reported at an airport about 20 miles east of the accident site were from 270 degrees at 7 knots.