Accident Details
A pilot completed a landing on a 1,600-foot long grass airstrip. After landing, he taxied to the end of the runway, turned around, and prepared for a short field takeoff. The pilot set the flaps to 25 degrees, applied full power, and pulled the yoke to the full aft position before beginning the takeoff roll. The airplane lifted off approximately 1,200 feet down the runway.
Pilot and Passenger Accounts
The pilot-rated passenger reported that the pilot "pulled the aircraft up too much" after takeoff, causing the nose to get too high. He also noted that the stall warning light "flickered" after the airplane passed over the departure end of the runway. The pilot stated that there was not enough airspeed to maintain lift, and he turned the airplane to the left and landed hard in a field adjacent to the runway.
Terrain Considerations
The terrain rose about 1,500 feet beyond the departure end of the runway. The passenger commented that the rising terrain "could be very deceiving" because, from the takeoff end of the runway, the terrain appeared closer than it actually was.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical deficiencies. The aircraft performed as expected, and the accident was attributed to aerodynamic stall resulting from insufficient airspeed after takeoff.