Incident Overview
An aircraft experienced a loss of altitude shortly after departing from Runway N, a turf runway measuring 2,650 feet in length and 150 feet in width. The pilot, who held 3,370 hours of flight experience, had jettisoned the chemical load but was still unable to climb. The event occurred at an unspecified date and time.
Environmental Conditions
Weather information was provided by the automated surface observing station at Midland International Airport (MAF), located approximately 12 miles southwest of the airstrip. Reported conditions included winds from 170° at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots, visibility of 10 statute miles, a clear sky, temperature 88°F (31°C), dew point 63°F (17°C), and barometric pressure of 29.88 inches of mercury. The field elevation at the private airstrip was 2,740 feet above mean sea level. Based on the temperature, dew point, and altimeter setting, the density altitude was calculated to be 5,320 feet.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft began to settle back down on the ground immediately after takeoff. The pilot had released the chemical load in an attempt to reduce weight, but this maneuver did not enable the aircraft to attain a positive climb rate. No further details about the outcome or damage were provided in the source.
Investigation Status
The source did not state a probable cause for the incident, nor did it identify the aircraft type, registration, or operator. No information was given regarding occupants, injuries, or damage to the aircraft or property.