Event
A pilot experienced a power loss while en route and performed a forced landing into a field that had historically been an airport. The airplane sustained no damage during the landing. The pilot arranged for repairs, and a farmer cut the grass in the field to create a runway for departure. The cleared area measured 1,500 feet long by 50 feet wide. An additional 1,600-foot section had been cut earlier by the farmer but was not re-cut.
Takeoff Attempt
The pilot reported attempting a short field takeoff. The airplane lifted off at an indicated airspeed of 65 to 70 knots but did not climb. The pilot allowed the airplane to settle back to the ground, gained more speed, and attempted to lift off again. The airplane again would not climb, and with trees approaching, the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane subsequently struck trees.
Witness Accounts
The on-board passenger reported that the airplane lifted off at 65 knots in a nose-high attitude, settled back, bounced up again, and then the pilot cut the power. A witness observed the airplane become airborne in a nose-high attitude, settle back, and become airborne again in a similar nose-high attitude before the pilot cut the power and the airplane struck trees.
Additional Information
No mechanical or engine problems were reported with the airplane. According to the FAA-approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), the airspeeds the pilot used for the takeoff were greater than those specified for the procedure. The field was located at the bottom of a canyon approximately 1,500 feet wide. The terrain required the pilot to climb out while remaining below the top of the surrounding canyon walls.