Accident Summary
A pilot conducted a takeoff from a 2,510-foot long runway with trees located at the departure end. The aircraft was operating at a weight close to its maximum certified gross weight, and the density altitude was 2,785 feet. During the takeoff, the airplane stalled at the end of the runway at treetop level, subsequently impacting trees and the terrain.
Investigation Details
Post-accident examination revealed that the landing gear was fully extended and the flaps were set at 10 degrees (the first notch). The pilot reported selecting 10 degrees of flaps for the takeoff. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) for the accident aircraft, 25 degrees of flaps is recommended for short-field takeoffs with obstacles, and the landing gear should be retracted after lift-off.
Performance Data
Based on the POH, using the calculated density altitude of 2,785 feet and 25 degrees of flaps, the distance required to clear a 50-foot obstacle was approximately 2,250 feet. With the same density altitude but 0 degrees of flaps, the distance to clear a 50-foot obstacle was approximately 2,500 feet. These calculations assume a takeoff from a paved, dry, level runway at the aircraft's certified maximum gross weight of 2,600 pounds.