What happened
During the initial climb phase following takeoff from a dirt airstrip, an aircraft collided with power lines. The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, the aircraft required more distance than normal to achieve liftoff.
Upon rotation, the pilot maintained a nose-high attitude in an attempt to climb; however, the landing gear was not retracted. As a result, the aircraft remained in ground effect and failed to gain sufficient altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck a set of utility lines located at the end of the runway. At the time of the accident, the computed density altitude was 6,167 feet.
Findings
There were no mechanical malfunctions reported regarding either the engine or the airframe. The collision occurred as the aircraft struggled to climb after rotation.