Event
The airplane impacted a road after takeoff. According to witnesses, the aircraft became airborne just before reaching the end of the 4,000-foot-long runway and achieved an altitude of only a few feet. It then settled back to the ground, impacted a road, and came to rest in a farm field.
Investigation
Investigators examined the airframe and found no anomalies. A teardown inspection of the engine and its accessories also revealed no issues that would have prevented normal operation. The pilot reported recalling the start of the takeoff but had no further memory of the event due to injury.
Weather and Performance
The takeoff was conducted on runway 12. Reported weather conditions included wind from 190 degrees magnetic at 15 knots, gusting to 21 knots; visibility 10 statute miles; clear skies; temperature 29 degrees Celsius; dewpoint 16 degrees Celsius; and an altimeter setting of 29.32 inches of mercury. According to the aircraft performance charts, given the reported weather and a maximum gross weight of 3,650 pounds, the calculated takeoff ground roll should have been approximately 1,500 feet.