Accident Description
After takeoff from an airport, the airplane did not climb as expected and collided with a utility pole located near the end of the runway. Subsequently, the airplane crashed onto a city street and caught fire after impacting the pavement.
Observations
The airport manager observed the airplane during its takeoff roll and noted that the engine emitted normal sounds. He also reported that the entire runway length was used for the takeoff roll.
Wreckage Examination
At the accident site, the flaps were found in the position specified by the takeoff checklist in the pilot's operating handbook (POH). The landing gear was extended, indicating it had not been retracted following liftoff. Postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed propeller damage indicative of operation at high rpm.
Performance Analysis
Using the maximum allowable gross weight of the airplane, sea level pressure, and a temperature of 20 degrees centigrade, the Normal Takeoff Distance Chart (with 10 degrees flap extension) from the POH indicated that the airplane would require 2,100 feet to take off and climb to a 50-foot height. The runway used during the accident flight was 3,962 feet long.
Investigation Results
Examination of the thermally destroyed wreckage failed to reveal a reason for the lack of expected airplane performance.