Incident Overview
During takeoff from runway 24, the aircraft experienced control difficulties shortly after gear retraction. The pilot initiated an emergency landing straight ahead, touching down with the landing gear retracted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage upon contact with the runway. All five individuals on board were uninjured.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported applying full throttle, mixture, and propeller controls, accelerating to rotation speed between 75 and 78 knots, then reaching 93 to 95 knots. Upon retracting the landing gear, the aircraft entered a sharp left bank followed by a right bank. The pilot noted limited control and opted to land straight ahead, choosing to land gear up due to insufficient time to lower the gear.
Passenger Statement
A pilot-rated passenger on board stated that when the pilot retracted the gear, the aircraft began banking left. The passenger assisted with controls to level the wings and lower the nose, describing control as marginal at best before the aircraft was placed on the ground.
Examination Findings
An on-scene examination revealed substantial damage to the right wing from runway contact and substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot had not completed a weight and balance calculation prior to the flight. Subsequent analysis determined that the aircraft was 264.1 pounds over its maximum takeoff weight. The wind at the time was reported as 110 degrees at 5 knots.