Takeoff and Initial Climb
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a private pilot conducted a pre-takeoff engine run-up, during which no anomalies were noted. The air traffic control tower cleared the flight for takeoff from runway 07, using the runway 16 intersection. The private pilot initiated the takeoff roll with flaps retracted and full fuel. A weather observation facility at the air base reported wind from 340 degrees at 11 knots at the time of the accident. During the takeoff roll, manifold pressure, rpm, and engine gauges remained within set limits, and the airplane became airborne.
Airspeed Deficiency and Troubleshooting
Once airborne, the airplane did not gain airspeed. The pilots maneuvered the airplane into the wind and decided not to retract the landing gear. The CFI stated that he "sensed a lack of adequate power development." The private pilot ensured the throttle was full forward, reduced the airplane's pitch attitude, and the airspeed "came back weakly;" however, when he increased the pitch attitude, the airspeed "immediately started falling away." The CFI tried several different mixture settings, but none increased power output. The airplane began descending, and the private pilot relinquished control to the CFI.
Forced Landing
During the ensuing forced landing, the CFI maneuvered the airplane around a concrete block and landed it in a rough field. During the rollout, the airplane contacted a fence and came to a stop upright. A post-accident examination and test run of the engine did not reveal any anomalies.