What happened
During a takeoff from an alfalfa field, a Cessna (type not specified) impacted a hangar, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot taxied for takeoff, intending to leave sufficient distance for the takeoff roll and initial climb. However, as the aircraft reached approximately three-quarters of the distance toward the hangar, the pilot realized that the obstacles could not be cleared.
In an attempt to avoid the structure, the pilot maintained a nose-up attitude, but the aircraft failed to gain enough altitude. The impact occurred just left of center on the hangar, after which the plane fell back to the ground. The takeoff area was an alfalfa field measuring approximately one mile square and enclosed by a barbed-wire fence. The distance from the start of the takeoff roll to the hangar was approximately 730 feet, with the takeoff path sloping upward by about 10 feet.
Findings
At the time of the accident, winds were reported from the south at eight knots. The temperature was 22 degrees Celsius, and the pressure was 29.98 inches of mercury, resulting in a calculated density altitude of 4,847 feet. The pilot reported that there were no malfunctions with the aircraft or engine prior to the collision.
Safety message
Federal regulations require the pilot-in-command to review takeoff distance data prior to flight to ensure sufficient runway distance is available.