Pilot Aborts Two Takeoffs, Aircraft Groundloops on Second Attempt (N6905M)

Accident Details

The pilot's first takeoff attempt on runway 24 was aborted because he perceived that the engine was not developing adequate power. After taxiing to runway 15, the pilot leaned the engine mixture to compensate for the high density altitude. He then initiated a takeoff roll on runway 15, which is 5,800 feet long. During the roll, the pilot determined that the airplane was not gaining sufficient speed for a safe takeoff and aborted the second takeoff. As the airplane slowed, it departed the right side of the runway and groundlooped. Post-accident investigation found no mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Weather Conditions

The reported weather included wind from 210 degrees at 7 knots and a temperature of 91 degrees Fahrenheit. The density altitude was calculated at 8,000 feet, significantly higher than the field elevation. The pilot attempted to mitigate the performance reduction by leaning the mixture, but the takeoff was still aborted due to inadequate acceleration.