Accident Overview
An agricultural application airplane was involved in an accident during the initial climb from a dirt airstrip. The aircraft collided with high vegetation and terrain after encountering difficulties with flap configuration and cargo release.
Sequence of Events
Prior to takeoff, the pilot did not lower the wing flaps to the 10-degree setting that had been used on previous takeoffs from the same airstrip. During the takeoff roll, the pilot realized the flaps were not set as accustomed and attempted to extend them. Despite these efforts, the flaps remained in the retracted position for reasons that could not be determined.
With approximately 20 feet of runway remaining, the pilot tried to release the load by deploying the cargo dump handle, but the attempt was unsuccessful. The airplane lifted off the runway but could not gain sufficient altitude to clear a nearby corn crop that was 5 to 6 feet tall.
Collision and Outcome
After impacting the corn, the airplane stalled, struck the ground, and cartwheeled three times before stopping in an inverted position. The specific damage to the aircraft was not detailed in the source.
Findings
The investigation noted the pilot's failure to set the flaps to the accustomed 10-degree position before takeoff, and the subsequent inability to extend them or release the cargo load during the takeoff roll.